DETECTIVES are trying to unravel a criminal web suspected of harbouring a dangerous fugitive.

Senior officers believe Jonathan Kelly, 34, has been supported by friends who have helped him remain a step ahead of police. As the search for Scotland's most wanted man continues, officers hope Kelly may "rear his head," celebrating his first 'free' Christmas and New Year for more than a decade.

One police insider said: "There is nothing we would like more this year than to catch Jonathan Kelly."

Senior sources close to the investigation said anyone, "harbouring or helping" the violent convict from Drumchapel would be prosecuted.

Officers will re-visit relatives, pals and associates as the search intensifies over the holiday period. However, more than 100 days after he was last seen, police have been forced to admit they are no closer to catching him.

It is understood Kelly has associates across the Glasgow area - many he may have met during his time in prison.

Detective Superintendent Stevie Grant, of Greater Glasgow Division CID, believes Kelly is receiving help to evade police. He urged anyone helping Kelly, who was freed from Low Moss Prison in Bishopbriggs, to give him up.

Mr Grant said: "Consider the extra pressure harbouring Mr Kelly will place on you and your family as time goes on, and you come to the attention of the police. I would discourage the general public from approaching him or engaging with him as he prefers to spend time on his own.

"A number of police officers continue to work on this inquiry with assistance by specialist colleagues from within our organisation.

"We are assisted by colleagues in other law enforcement agencies across the UK. I would advise people not to approach him but to contact police if they see him - any sightings should be reported to police or give your information to Crimestoppers."

Detectives have spoken to Kelly's mother Pauline, but she has had very little contact with him in recent years.

His father, convicted murderer James Kelly, died in 2012.

He also has an uncle in London and police there have made inquiries in Croydon and Clapham where he lived as a teenager.

it is understoodKelly had breached one of his 32 strict release conditions and was set to be returned to jail - for at least another decade.