AN investigation to stop unlicensed bars and clubs popping up in the city centre like “whack-a-mole” has entered the next phase.

Police Scotland has teamed up with the Scottish Fire and Rescue to stop these venues operating after the problem was spotted in Finnieston this summer.

Concerns were raised at the most recent licensing forum that the Chief Constable’s report for 2018-2019 did not highlight any progress made to address the issue.

Donald MacLeod, chairman of the licensing forum, said: “I notice that there is no mention of the unlicensed clubs which were discovered about three or four months ago.

“This is still a problem, especially in Finnieston.

“ It is like whack-a-mole, one goes down and another pops up.”

Inspector Sean Ramsey informed the forum that because these premises did not have a licence, it did not form part of the licensing police report.

Police Scotland works in partnership with the local authority to prevent alcohol-fuelled violence, disorder and anti-social behaviour.

READ MORE: Police plan fake ID crackdown at Glasgow's TRNSMT Festival

Inspector Ramsey said: “We do have an ongoing operation regarding unlicensed bars and clubs.

“We have found one or two recently where people were paying to listen to music but no alcohol was sold.

“We have linked in with the fire brigade to help us continue this investigation.

“The problem in this situation was public health and safety as there was no real offence taking place.

“We have been trying to look at this from a safety point of view and making sure that comes first in the running of these venues.

“There is very little prior notice to these events.

“We will go and make sure people are taking responsibility if we manage to speak to the operator.

“There is a great deal of alarm caused by this initiative – it is one of our biggest concerns.”

Bosses of licensed venues have also raised concerns about the impact this is having on trade as well as health and safety.

Mr MacLeod added: “Bonafede operators are concerned about this as much as anyone else.

“There are not just 50 or 60 people at these venues but 500. It affects trade as well.”

Police Scotland are confident that through strong partnerships and collaborative working, they will meet any challenges that may arise.

They will continue to improve licensing standards for the communities of Glasgow and the rest of Scotland.

Emergency services will continue to monitor and address the situation of unlicensed .

Glasgow City Council’s licensing forum is expecting to be updated as the investigation continues.