A protest in Glasgow that led to 15 arrests has been condemned as a "demonstration of far-right hatred" by First Minister John Swinney. Violence broke out at Glasgow Green on Saturday between a rally organised by Unite the Clans and a larger counter-protest.
Videos circulating on social media showed some attendees performing what appeared to be Nazi salutes. Arrests were made for possession of an offensive weapon, assault, breach of the peace, obstruction and resisting arrest. Police stated that some individuals arrived with the "intention for pre-meditated disorder, violence and intimidation."
Swinney condemns far-right rhetoric
Speaking to the Press Association on Monday, Swinney described the scenes as "completely and utterly unacceptable." He said: "It was a demonstration of far-right hatred within the city of Glasgow at a time when the city was also welcoming representatives of 74 Commonwealth countries in a joyful set of sporting occasions throughout the city."
He added: "I thought the behaviour at the demonstrations was totally and utterly unacceptable, it is just unworthy of our streets to have the far-right rhetoric that was spewed out onto our streets, and the violence that went with it." Swinney expressed full support for Police Scotland and their measures to bring the situation under control, looking forward to those responsible being brought to justice. He noted there was "plenty of hateful behaviour being demonstrated at these demonstrations at the weekend."
Police investigation underway
In a statement on Sunday, Chief Superintendent Emma Croft called the scenes "nothing short of disgraceful." She said: "A significant investigation is already under way and my message is clear – if you were involved in these deplorable acts, you should expect our officers to be knocking on your door."
