Police launch probe into social media video alleging Govanhill child sexual exploitation

A video of a man walking around a district in Glasgow making allegations of child sexual exploitation has sparked a police investigation.

Officers said they are “aware” of videos circulating on social media this week in relation to serious claims made about Govanhill.

A police spokeswoman said: “The allegations presented in the video are being looked into. If anyone has any information relating to this then they should contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Roma community group Romano Lav has said content the social media video is making "spurious and unevidenced allegations" about residents in the area.

Police probe video where man makes claims about child sexual exploitation in Glasgow district picture: JPI Media

A statement on its Facebook page read: “As a grassroots community organisation working with and supporting Roma communities who stay in Govanhill, everyone at Romano Lav has been deeply concerned by the spurious and unevidenced allegations which have been circulating on various social media platforms recently.

"Romano Lav has been actively working with Roma families and young people in Govanhill for more than six years now.

"During this time, we have not encountered any instances of the serious child protection issues that have been widely shared on social media as being routinely occurring in the area.

"As an organisation committed to equality, anti-racism and social justice, we would encourage anyone with legitimate concerns - and evidence - regarding child welfare issues to immediately report these suspicions to the relevant authorities, including Police Scotland, Social Work agencies and Glasgow City Council.

Romano Lav is a charity organisation challenging discrimination and promoting equality for the Roma people in Scotland.

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