Cops raced to HMP Barlinnie in Glasgow twice in the space of hours amid two incidents last night.

Originally, officers were called to a report of a drone flying near the slammer in the East End at around 11.45pm on Wednesday, September 4.

999 crews then rushed to the area. After that, cops claim they discovered several items including suspected drugs in an area of open ground near Gartcraig Road.

Police then searched for a man who was acting 'suspiciously' in the area.

Officers believe the man may have been using an e-bike but they couldn't track him down.

(Image: Newsquest)

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However, a short time later, cops received a further report of a drone flying near the city's nick for a second time.

They were alerted to the new incident at around 2.25am this morning (Thursday, September 5).

Emergency crews raced back to the area where they discovered a device and a quantity of suspected drugs near the prison grounds.

Now, the force has revealed they are following a positive line of enquiry after both of the incidents.

Police also said they are working with the Scottish Prison Service, while they are urging anyone with information to come forward.

During the situation, residents in the local area took to social media to question what was going on.

READ MORE: Motor 'deliberately' torched during night-time incident on street

Several reported hearing and seeing a police helicopter shortly after midnight.

One said: "Somethings going on next to Barlinnie Prison. The police helicopter has been circling for the past 20 minutes."

A second added: "Helicopter around Riddrie. Spotlight shining down."

Meanwhile, a third said: "What's going on with the police helicopter?"

(Image: Newsquest)

Inspector Max Shaw said: “Around 11.45pm on Wednesday, September 4, police received a report of a drone flying near to HMP Barlinnie. 

"Officers attended and recovered a quantity of items including suspected controlled drugs in an area of open ground near Gartcairn Road.

"Searches were carried out for a man seen acting suspiciously in the area who may have been using an e-bike, however, there was no trace.

“Following a further report of a drone flying near HMP Barlinnie around 2.25am on Thursday, September 5, a device and a quantity of suspected controlled drugs were subsequently recovered near the prison grounds.

“With positive lines of enquiry, we are working with our partners in the Scottish Prison Service as an investigation is carried out.

"We would encourage anyone with information to call police on 101, quoting incident 4296 of September 4.

"Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, if you wish to remain anonymous.”

A Scottish Prison Service spokesperson said: “Any attempt to bring illicit substances into our establishment, including by a drone, poses a significant threat to the health and wellbeing of those in our care, and we will use all technological and intelligence tools available to prevent this wherever possible. 

“We continue to work with Police Scotland and other partners, to take action against those who attempt to breach our security.”