Police reveal major probe into alleged child abuse

POLICE in the Highlands are carrying out one of the area's largest probes into alleged child abuse.

Northern Constabulary is involved in an investigation in the Muir of Ord area said to involve "multiple suspects and victims".

The news emerged in papers for the Northern Joint Police Board meeting next Tuesday.

In his report to the board, Chief Constable Ian Latimer said the investigation was likely to continue for 13 weeks and was "destined to be one of the largest of its type in recent years".

Last month, two Ross-shire men appeared in Dingwall Sheriff Court charged with serious sex offences, including rape.

William Burns, 67, from Muir of Ord, and Donald Burns, 42, from Invergordon, were both remanded in custody.

William Burns was charged with two cases of rape and one of attempted rape. Donald Burns was accused of lewd and libidinous conduct towards a girl aged between 12 and 16 years and of having sexual intercourse with a girl aged between 13 and 16.

Both made no plea nor declaration during the private hearing on 1 April.