A truck was engulfed in flames at a garage in Coatbridge on Bonfire Night as fireworks were launched at officers amid disorder in Edinburgh. Footage captured a vehicle completely ablaze at a garage on Russell Colt Street, beside the SPAR shop, on Thursday evening.
Witnesses reported seeing two police officers at the scene around 8.15pm, although it is not yet known whether the fire was connected to Bonfire Night celebrations.
Disorder in Edinburgh
Meanwhile, fireworks were fired at police in the south of Edinburgh as officers dealt with disorder involving groups of young people. In Oxgangs and around Colinton Mains, bins were knocked over and set alight in the road, prompting a large police presence.
Locals reported youths launching fireworks at emergency services as they attempted to tackle the trouble. One person, who did not want to be named, told the Press Association: “They’re setting fire in the park and shooting fireworks at the police and firemen.”
Police response
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 5.30pm on Thursday, November 5 2026, we received a report of a group of youths creating a blockage in the road on Oxgangs Road North, Edinburgh. Officers attended and fireworks were set off in their direction, but no injuries have been reported.
“Several small fires in bins and the park were extinguished by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Officers remain in the area, and inquiries are ongoing to trace those involved.”
Wider operation
In Wester Hailes, firefighters were also called to a bonfire in a grass area near homes in Murrayburn Park shortly after 7pm. One fire engine attended to extinguish the blaze.
The incidents came as Police Scotland mounted a major operation across the country for Bonfire Night, deploying additional officers from forces in England and Wales. The operation coincided with a major European football clash and the possibility of a protest in Glasgow, with officers brought in from Avon and Somerset, Hampshire, Hertfordshire and South Wales.
Chief Superintendent David Robertson said the force was prepared for the evening's events. Speaking at a briefing in Edinburgh, he said: “I'm confident that we're ready for whatever may happen this evening.”
He added the vast majority of people would enjoy Bonfire Night peacefully, saying police were there to protect them from those who might have other intentions. Police Scotland chief constable Jo Farrell also told officers she was “absolutely confident” in their preparations.
Community safety minister Kirsten Oswald urged people to behave responsibly and enjoy fireworks safely, warning that Bonfire Night was already a significant night for emergency services.
