Police investigating a suspicious package sent to Glasgow University have said a claim of responsibility has allegedly been made on behalf of the IRA.

A controlled explosion was carried out at the campus after the item was found on Wednesday, a day after similar items were sent to three buildings in London.

Now a group claiming to represent the Irish Republican Army have said they were responsible for the incidents.

However, the group have claimed responsibility for five devices sent despite only four being recovered.

Police Scotland have now issued a joint statement with the Metropolitan Police in response to the claims made to a media outlet in Northern Ireland.

The claim was received on Monday, March 11, using a recognised codeword, allegedly on behalf of the IRA.

Officers said the fact the packages bore similarities to devices sent in the past which were linked to dissident groups associated with Northern Ireland-related terrorism, meant they were looking into this line of enquiry already.

In the joint statement the police force said: "Extensive advice has already been issued to relevant businesses and sectors to be vigilant for and report suspicious packages to police.

"This advice was previously sent to armed forces personnel and is being reiterated again in light of this claim.

"We continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to police.

"Suspicious activity can be reported by calling the confidential phone line 0800 789 32."

"In an emergency always dial 999."

The Met Police received a report of a suspicious packages sent to The Compass Centre, Waterloo Station and offices at City Aviation House on Tuesday, March 5.

The Compass Centre incident resulted in part of the package burning, but thankfully no one was injured and the building was evacuated as a precaution.

Then on Wednesday, March 6, a suspicious package was received at the University of Glasgow.

The package was not opened and again no one was injured.

The emergency services were alerted and several buildings within the estate were evacuated as a precaution before Specialist officers carried out a controlled explosion.

Detectives from the Met's Counter Terrorism Command are leading the investigation into the three packages received in London, whilst Police Scotland, under direction from the Crown, is leading the investigation into the package received at the University of Glasgow.

Both investigation teams are working closely together to share any information or intelligence that could assist their respective inquiries.

Enquiries continue and no arrests have been made at this time.