Story perspectives

Swinney Apologizes as Belov Pair Sentenced for Dundee Assault

6/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

First Minister John Swinney publicly apologized to the Dundee girl after earlier condemning online misinformation and criticizing Elon Musk’s comments.
Police Scotland admitted its statement mischaracterised the case by suggesting only the girl was involved, with Sheriff Tim Niven-Smith describing her testimony as eloquent.
Ilia Belov, 22, was convicted of assaulting the girl and will be sentenced with his sister Nadjedzha Belova, who also admitted assaulting a 13-year-old, on 5 August.

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Story summary

First Minister John Swinney publicly apologized to the Dundee girl after earlier condemning online misinformation and criticizing Elon Musk’s comments.
Police Scotland admitted its statement mischaracterised the case by suggesting only the girl was involved, with Sheriff Tim Niven-Smith describing her testimony as eloquent.
Ilia Belov, 22, was convicted of assaulting the girl and will be sentenced with his sister Nadjedzha Belova, who also admitted assaulting a 13-year-old, on 5 August.