Explosion in Scottish Forest

Above: Garadhban Forest

 Anti-terrorism police in Scotland are carrying out an investigation into an explosion which occurred on Wednesday afternoon in a wooded area.

The explosion took place in the Garadhban Forest, near Loch Lomond in Gartocharn (about 20 miles north-west of Glasgow).

While little information has been made public, local sources indicate that the incident may have been carried out by Islamic extremists who were conducting a training camp in the area. Other possibilities put forward include armed Scottish separatist groups such as the outlawed Scottish National Liberation Army (SNLA).

Meanwhile, Irish Republican Army (IRA) splinter groups are also suspected. The groups have threatened to take their small armed campaigns to England and have some support among hardline Scottish Nationalists and the large Irish community. During it's campaign, Provisional IRA units in England often stored their weapons in forests and other remote locations.

Speaking to the media, Chief Supt Calum Murray said:  

"I would stress that the site is secure and that there is no risk to public safety. As the explosion took place in a wooded area, there was no damage to property, and no-one was injured. We do want to minimize disruption to the community, and we thank the public for their patience.

"I would ask that if anyone has seen anything suspicious in or around the area, or has any information - no matter how insignificant it may seem, that they contact the police or Crimestoppers. All calls will, of course, be treated in the strictest of confidence"