Council binmen being investigated for racism in Cumbernauld street

An investigation is taking place at North Lanarkshire Council amidst claims that two of its staff allegedly aimed racial slurs at a man.

The incident is alleged to have happened in Carbrain at around noon on Sunday, May 31, and is said to involve a pair of waste operatives as a collection was underway in the street.

It is claimed that the staff involved refused to pick up the bin of the alleged victim and complained about the man on the grounds of his skin colour to shocked bystanders in the Millcroft Road area.

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There is a wider allegation too that the pair have been vocal with residents in general when they visit the area.

The matter, which was reported to police, came to the attention of local councillor Junaid Ashraf.

He said: “I have raised my concerns to North Lanarkshire Council who will be conducting an internal investigation.

“The details of this cannot be discussed.

“However, I will ensure alongside officers that this incident is investigated fully.”

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A spokesperson for North Lanarkshire Council confirmed: “ We are carrying out an investigation and will cooperate fully with any further police investigation.”

However, it is unclear what action if any would be taken by officers after police stated that the matter had been dealt with when the men were spoken to shortly after the incident.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We can confirm that officers were called to the Millcroft Road area of Cumbernauld at around 11.45am on Sunday, May 31, following a report of a disturbance.

“No crime could be established and suitable advice was given to all parties at the scene.”