Schools in Scottish Borders caught up in UK-wide hoax threat probe
Last updated 19th Oct 2026
Scottish Borders Council has confirmed it has received an email regarding "a device reportedly located within (its) schools", as police investigate hoax threats sent to local authorities across the UK.
It comes after Stormont’s education minister said more than 150 schools in Northern Ireland had received bomb threats, which are not being treated as viable.
Minister Paul Givan confirmed that 160 schools had been subject to the communications in Northern Ireland.
He said the messages appeared to threaten the introduction of Sharia law and were signed “Allahu Akbar”.
Images circulating online appear to show an email stating: “an explosive device containing ammonium nitrate is currently located inside the building”, before adding: “With Allah’s permission, we will carry out a series of planned terrorist attacks across the country”.
However, police stress there is no credible threat.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We are aware of threatening messages being sent to a number of schools across Scotland.
“These are being treated as a hoax and officers are investigating.”
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It is understood some schools around Glasgow were evacuated on Monday morning, but have since reopened.
In a letter sent to parents and guardians, Glasgow City Council confirmed it is continuing to work with police to look into the matter, and that the children’s safety remains their top priority.
The Scottish Government said it was informed about the hoax threats.
Schools in the Borders are due to reopen tomorrow (Tuesday) following the October break.
A spokesperson for the local authority said: “Scottish Borders Council, along with a number of UK local authorities, have reported receiving an email regarding a device reportedly located within our schools.
“The matter has been referred to Police Scotland. At this stage, the incident is being treated as a hoax.
“We will continue to liaise with Police Scotland.”
The reports follow an incident at Coquet Community School in Amble, Northumberland, last week. It is unclear if they are linked.
Conservative councillor Guy Renner-Thompson - the County Council's Cabinet Member for Childrens Services - said he was relieved that all pupils and staff were safe following the incident.
He said: "I was due to attend the official opening of the fantastic new school building. It should have been a day of celebration for pupils, staff and the wider community, recognising the investment we've made in education in Amble.
"Instead, children, parents and staff have been put through an extremely worrying and distressing experience.
"Northumberland County Council take any threat involving our schools extremely seriously. There is absolutely no excuse for behaviour that causes this level of fear and disruption, and I hope those responsible are identified and brought to justice.
"Our children deserve to feel safe at school, and I look forward to returning to celebrate the opening of this wonderful new building."
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