Police vow to arrest thugs after Bonfire Night attacks on cops and firefighters

Police in Scotland have promised to arrest the individuals responsible for the attacks on emergency service workers during Bonfire Night celebrations in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Assistant Chief Constable of Police Scotland, Tim Mairs, expressed his outrage at the incidents where firefighters and police officers were targeted with fireworks and bricks. Mairs assured that arrests will be made in the coming days and weeks as they investigate the “significant disorder” that occurred in both cities.

On Bonfire Night, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) received over 1,000 calls from the public within an eight-hour period, with reports of six attacks on fire crews in just three hours. Police Scotland’s Operation Moonbeam responded to 18 incidents, a decrease from the previous year, with fewer officers injured. Despite the reduction in police injuries, Mairs highlighted the continued challenges faced during the evening due to disorder in various areas of Edinburgh and Glasgow.

In Edinburgh, riot police were deployed in response to individuals throwing fireworks, bricks, masonry, and bottles at officers in locations such as Moredun, Niddrie, and Broomhouse. Additional incidents included attacks on Lothian Buses and fire appliances. Mairs condemned the violence, stating that such behaviour was unacceptable and posed a danger to communities, emergency service workers, and the public.

The SFRS reported multiple attacks on fire crews across different locations, hindering their ability to respond to emergencies efficiently. Despite the challenges faced, Andy Watt, SFRS deputy chief officer, commended the professionalism and resilience of frontline crews. He emphasised the importance of community support and collaboration to ensure the safety of all during the bonfire period.

As investigations continue, authorities are reviewing captured footage to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attacks. The focus is on holding individuals who engage in such violent behaviour accountable for their actions. With a commitment to ensuring the safety of emergency service workers and the public, police and fire services are working together to address the aftermath of the Bonfire Night disturbances.

In conclusion, the events of Bonfire Night serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by emergency service workers and the need for community cooperation to maintain public safety during festive celebrations. The commitment of law enforcement agencies to investigate and apprehend those involved in the attacks demonstrates a dedication to upholding the rule of law and protecting both frontline workers and the communities they serve.