Police say false claims led to Glasgow man being removed from home

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A Glasgow man had to be removed from his home for his own safety after misinformation spread online led to a crowd gathering outside his property, police have said.

Police Scotland has issued an appeal for information after windows were smashed at a property on Yate Street in Glasgow following the circulation of false claims on social media.

The force said it became aware of reports online alleging that a man had committed a sexual act at the window of a property in the area on Friday, August 28.

However, after carrying out enquiries, officers established that the incident had not taken place and that no crime had been committed.

Despite this, police say misinformation surrounding the claims continued to spread online.

On the evening of Wednesday, September 2, a crowd gathered outside the property and damage was caused to the address.

Police confirmed the man living there was removed from the area for his own safety.

Chief Inspector Hannah Edward said: "I would urge the public to behave responsibly around social media, particularly with information being shared and the response to what is read or seen online.

"This information is not always accurate, and on this occasion, has resulted in property being damaged and someone being removed from their home for their safety.

"Enquiries are ongoing to identify those responsible for the vandalism and anyone with information is urged to contact us via 101, quoting reference number 2890 of Wednesday, 2 September, 2026."

Police Scotland said investigations into the vandalism are ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact officers via 101 quoting reference number 2890 of September 2, 2026.

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