The chief constable of Police Scotland has condemned the “disgraceful scenes” around a protest in Glasgow on Saturday, saying further action will be taken to find those who broke the law.
Chief constable Jo Farrell also said the force has been responding to an increased number of “spontaneous” protests around Scotland.
Violence at Glasgow Green
Violence erupted at Glasgow Green and around the city centre on Saturday during an anti-immigration rally that was met with anti-racism protesters.
According to officers, 1,700 people took part in the protests, with 15 people arrested for offences including assault, possession of offensive weapons, breach of the peace, obstruction and resisting arrest.
Police Response
Police said groups engaged in violence, disorder, intimidation and hate-motivated offences, including a large group of around 100 people who made their way into the city centre.
The anti-immigration protest at Glasgow Green came after a number of smaller demonstrations around Scotland in recent weeks.
The chief constable discussed the events in Glasgow in her report to the Scottish Police Authority board, which will meet on Thursday.
She said: “Scotland continues to experience an increased level of planned and spontaneous protests, and while most are peaceful, policing has responded to instances of criminality, including disgraceful scenes in Glasgow at the weekend.
“I would take this opportunity to condemn violence, disorder and intimidation.
“Arrests have been made, a significant investigation has been established and we will take further action.”
She continued: “Extensive inquiries, led by the major investigation team, are under way into the disorder and officers will be reviewing CCTV, mobile phone and dashcam footage, and capturing statements to identify those responsible.”
The chief constable’s update also mentioned Police Scotland’s deployments around the Commonwealth Games and the Cairngorms wildfire.
