Police chief condemns 'disgraceful scenes' after far-right violence in Glasgow

(Image: Gordon Terris)

The chief constable of Police Scotland has condemned the “disgraceful scenes” seen in Glasgow over the weekend as members of far-right groups like Unite the Clans gathered on Saturday.

Chief constable Jo Farrell also said the force has been responding to an increased number of “spontaneous” protests around Scotland, adding that further action will be taken to find those who broke the law.

Violence erupted in Glasgow Green as members of far-right, anti-immigration group Unite the Clans clashed with anti-racism protesters and the police on Saturday as both groups held opposing rallies.

According to officers, 1700 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 said various 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.

We reported on a delivery driver's experience of being subjected to a racist attack by far-right thugs while working.

The anti-immigration protest at Glasgow Green came after a number of demonstrations around Scotland in recent weeks, the largest of which came following a stabbing attack in Belfast.

Following a demonstration in the city centre, masked men were seen rioting in the streets forcing a major police operation that locked down several roads and bridges across the river.

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.