Former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has described allegations that her husband embezzled SNP funds as “incredibly difficult”.
Former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell was charged in connection with alleged embezzlement of funds on Thursday evening.
The 59-year-old was taken into custody for questioning on Thursday morning, more than a year after his first arrest.
Speaking to media outside her home in Glasgow on Friday, Ms Sturgeon said: "It is incredibly difficult, but that is not the main issue here.
"I can't say any more, I'm not going to say any more."
She asked for peace for her neighbours before leaving by car.
Police confirmed on Thursday evening Mr Murrell has been charged as part of a probe into the SNP’s finances. He has resigned his SNP membership.
The development has been described by First Minister and SNP leader Humza Yousaf as "a really serious matter indeed".Giving his reaction to what he described as "serious, serious developments" the SNP leader said: "As per the police statement, it is a very serious development.
"As per the police statement, it's an allegation of embezzlement from the party. That's really serious indeed."
Mr Yousaf added: "Many people in the SNP, right across Scottish politics, will be shocked by the news."
Scottish Conservatives chairman Craig Hoy urged the SNP to “fully cooperate” as the investigation continues.
He said the announcement that Police Scotland had charged Mr Murrell “is an extremely serious development in the investigation” and called for the SNP to commit to being fully open and transparent.
An SNP spokesperson said: “While this development will come as a shock, the police investigation remains ongoing and it would, therefore, be inappropriate to make any comment.”
Mr Murrell’s charge is part of a probe known as Operation Branchform into the spending of more than £600,000 in donations for independence campaigning.
Mr Murrell arrived at the home he shares with Ms Sturgeon on the outskirts of Glasgow shortly after 8pm on Thursday.
Ms Sturgeon, who resigned as first minister and SNP leader in February 2023, was arrested two months after her husband was first arrested, while former party treasurer Colin Beattie was also arrested last year.
Both Ms Sturgeon and Mr Beattie were released without charge pending further investigation.
Mr Murrell stepped down as SNP chief executive – a role he had held for more than 20 years – during last year’s leadership campaign.
He has been married to Ms Sturgeon since 2010.
