A masked e-biker fled police during a chaotic interview on Bonfire Night in Edinburgh, in a clip filmed by journalist Davy Shanks in the Niddrie area of the city. The encounter was described as like a "scene from Scot Squad" as it descended into mayhem.
Mid-interview escape
The freelance reporter and lecturer was filming a piece to camera ahead of possible fireworks disorder on November 5. While he was talking, he was joined by a man wearing a balaclava and riding an e-bike who mimicked the reporter's words before giving viewers a thumbs up and adding: "Put this on the news."
The local man was then asked by the reporter if they were expecting any disorder that night. He said: "I think everything will be sound. Nae bother, nae nothing. I don't think anybody's planning to do anything bad."
Officer gives chase
Before the reporter could ask another question, the masked biker spotted a police officer charging towards him off camera. Mid-sentence, he said "Oh, mate, I've" before scrambling onto his bike and speeding off down the street.
A police officer then appeared in the shot, attempting to run after the biker but stumbling into the middle of the road in a semi-hot pursuit. The officer turned around to the camera, appearing breathless and defeated, and watched on helplessly as the e-biker flew around the roundabout and roared down the street, out of sight.
Social media reaction
The unexpected moment was well received by social media users who compared the interaction to a scene from comedy show Scot Squad. @UKaForceForGood said on X: "That's like a scene from Scot Squad." @DiskoMashine seconded: "Thought I was watching Scot Squad. Seriously."
@boomtingl commented "Restless Natives", in a reference to the 1985 Scottish comedy film following two Edinburgh teens who rob tour buses by motorbike, armed with sneezing powder and wearing funny masks. @resurgent_harry added: "Never change, Scotland. Never change."
Background of disorder
It comes after 34 officers reported suffering from hearing issues since they were ambushed with flaming projectiles in Niddrie on Bonfire Night in 2023. A further eight cops were left injured during the ugly scenes, which saw a gang of around 100 masked youths terrorise a residential area during a three-hour-long rampage. Terrifying video footage taken at the time shows cops being targeted with rockets and other explosives as the area was gripped by turmoil.
This year, despite some shocking scenes across the country, Police Scotland have praised a drop in disorder.
