Roosh V: police pledge to keep close eye on '˜pick-up' events

POLICE have vowed to investigate any criminality committed by disciples of 'pick-up artist' Roosh V this weekend.
Roosh V, whose real name is Daryush Valizadeh. File pictureRoosh V, whose real name is Daryush Valizadeh. File picture
Roosh V, whose real name is Daryush Valizadeh. File picture

Supporters of the American author, whose real name is Daryush Valizadeh, are expected to meet at the Grassmarket in Edinburgh and Glasgow’s George Square at 8pm on Saturday before heading to a “secret location”.

Mr Valizadeh has self-published 15 books in which he claims to advise men on how to “pick up women”.

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But the books feature racial stereotypes and disturbing stories of how he has “bullied” and groomed drunk and young women into sleeping with him.

Now the writer – who reportedly believes rape should be legalised on private property – has organised an international meet-up, taking place in 40 countries around the world, on Saturday evening for his followers.

Only heterosexual men are permitted to attend the events, with warnings that any women who gather will be filmed – with footage then shown to his “anti-feminist” network.

Close to 40,000 people have signed an online petition opposing the gatherings, and SNP MP Tommy Sheppard has tabled a motion in Parliament condemning the meetings.

Hundreds of protesters have also vowed to disrupt the meet-up.

A police statement posted online read: “Police Scotland is aware of the proposed pick-up artist events in Glasgow and Edinburgh on Saturday evening.

“Our focus remains on keeping communities safe and our response will be proportionate, appropriate and will be determined by the circumstances of any incident or event.

“The comments that have featured on social media and the internet have caused a great deal of anxiety to communities.

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“It must be stressed that any offensive or threatening behaviour whether in public or online will be investigated and appropriate action taken.

“Police Scotland will continue to monitor social media and investigate any criminality that is identified.

“Our message is clear, sex without consent is rape. We will continue to robustly investigate all reports of sexual crime, working with partners to support victims and bring perpetrators to justice.”