Surveillance

Council using covert listening devices to ‘spy on residents’

COUNCIL workers have used undercover tactics to spy on residents to find out if they are breaking the law.

Listening devices hidden in suitcases have been used as well as covert cameras to snoop on blue badge cheats, nuisance neighbours and illegal money lenders.

Surveillance techniques were deployed under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Scotland Act (RIPSA).

The controversial legislation was introduced in 2000 to make sure that the surveillance of people involved in serious crimes such as terrorism was properly regulated during investigations.