Police Scotland has vowed a “strong response” to any violence or disorder in Glasgow as rival demonstrations are set to converge on the city this Saturday.
A Pink Ladies protest is expected at Glasgow Green at 1pm, with a number of anti-immigration groups encouraging their followers to turn out. Opposition groups, including Stand Up to Racism Scotland, will hold a counter demonstration at the same location, kicking off at midday.
Background of unrest
Trouble flared around Glasgow Green on July 25 when an anti-immigration rally was met by counter protesters, resulting in more than 20 people being charged in connection with the unrest.
Ahead of Saturday's events, Police Scotland made it clear that disorder would not be tolerated, reports Glasgow Live.
Police response and preparations
Chief Superintendent Stevie Dolan said: “People have a right to peaceful protest.
“We perform various functions at protests but our main role is to prevent crime and disorder, whether that criminality is from people who are part of a protest group, counter protesters or passers-by disrupting a protest.”
He went on to say: “You will see officers in uniform as well as police horses, police dogs, police drones and the police helicopter.
“We have specially trained hate crime advisers to help assess what may constitute a hate crime.
“Officers wearing a light blue vest are called Police Liaison Officers (PLOs) and they act as a point of contact for the organiser to speak to the police.”
Warning to attendees
He continued: “If you are attending on Saturday, live nearby or just visiting the area, speak to us. We're there for your safety.
“Any violence or disorder will get a strong response.
“There is no tolerance for people pretending to be part of a peaceful protest who are intent on causing disorder.”
