Police are investigating a hate crime incident after a teenage boy was filmed performing a Nazi salute outside Giffnock and Newlands Synagogue in East Renfrewshire, Scotland.

A 16-year-old has been charged in connection with the incident.

Jewish leaders have condemned the social media video which shows a 16-year-old boy with a Hitler moustache drawn above his upper lip making the abhorrent gesture.

The movie footage was reportedly widely shared before being reported to police.

“Police Scotland is aware of a video circulating online on various social media channels which shows a teenage boy conducting actions of an anti-Semitic nature outside a synagogue,” said a Police Scotland spokesperson on Monday.

“Enquiries are ongoing to trace the persons responsible for making and distributing the video.”

East Renfrewshire Council is investigating the incident and has vowed to take action against those involved in producing the film.

A council spokesman said, “We take a zero tolerance approach to the misuse of social media, particularly when it is offensive to others.

“We promote an ethos of equity and equality and foster good relationships in all our schools and this matter will be dealt with in line with those policies.”

Paul Edlin, president of Glasgow Jewish Representative Council, said: “The Glasgow Jewish Representative Council are appalled at this anti-Semitic hate crime and we understand that the police are pursuing it vigorously and hope that the alleged perpetrators will be brought to justice quickly.

“The fact that it is now posted on social media makes it an even more significant hate crime.”

The Community Security Trust is aware of the incident.

By Howard Lawrence