Local resources and specialist national teams from Police Scotland have again come together to deploy on Bonfire Night, with the organisation recording 20 per cent fewer calls and reported incidents in comparison to last year.
A policing plan under the name Operation Moonbeam was introduced in 2018 in response to significant public disorder and anti-social behaviour the previous year. This had included targeted attacks on the blue light services responding to emergency calls during the Fireworks Night period.
Throughout Thursday, 4 November, and Friday, 5 November, 2021, 649 calls were received by police in relation to fireworks, and a further 105 regarding fires. In 2020 these figures were 798 and 153, respectively.
Operation Moonbeam lead, Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs said: “Due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19, again, there were fewer organised events this year.
“It is very encouraging that we saw a reduction in calls during this traditionally high-demand period. I want to thank everyone who heeded our advice to enjoy themselves in a safe and responsible manner.
“However, unfortunately a number of police officers as well as colleagues from the other emergency services were targeted by a minority of people intent on causing disorder. I utterly condemn this behaviour.
“Thankfully, none of those affected sustained serious injuries but no-one should have to face violence in the course of their duties. These kind of incidents put intense additional pressure on the emergency services and impact our officers’ ability to respond to other people in need.
“We will continue to thoroughly investigate these incidents in the coming days so as to identify those involved.”
Assistant Chief Officer Stuart Stevens, Director of Service Delivery for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Attacks on our firefighters are completely unacceptable.
“This type of behaviour not only prevents our crews from bringing any emergency to a safe and swift conclusion, but it can impact on our emergency service colleagues – including the police when they must escort us at the scene.
“This type of behaviour is, of course, carried out by a very small minority and we once again thank our communities for their continuing support and working together with us to stay safe.”
Statement from Assistant Chief Constable Gary Ritchie ahead of the Fridays for Future and Climate marches taking place this weekend:
ACC Ritchie said: “The Fridays for Future and Climate march are due to take place this Friday and Saturday, the 5th and 6th of November, and we expect Glasgow to be busier than usual on these days.
“You will certainly see an increased police presence in Glasgow during these events but please don’t be worried. Officers are there to maintain the safety of the public and participants, as well as to protect the rights of people who wish to peacefully protest or to counter-protest.
“These rights are always balanced against the rights of the wider community. If you are planning on attending the marches or are travelling to Glasgow for another reason, plan your journey in advance.
“Both the road and public transport networks are likely to be really busy. There are road closures in place during COP26 and information about this can be found on the Get Ready Glasgow website.
“Among the officers who’ll be deployed this weekend are Police Liaison Officers, they will be wearing light blue police vests. They act as a link between event organisers and the police. Their aim is to make sure that participants can exercise their democratic right to demonstrate while helping to ensure the policing response is proportionate.
“A number of other specialist officers will be deployed for these events as well. As will officers from other police services from around the UK who have come to Glasgow to provide assistance. So you’ll likely see officers in uniforms which are slightly different to those worn by Police Scotland.
“We have engaged with key campaign groups to ensure these protests can take place safety and with as little disruption as possible. However, we have made clear that should violent disorder or damage to property occur, those involved will be dealt with swiftly and robustly.
“If you’re going to a march, please act responsibly, be respectful in your actions, and follow the route and instructions given to you by police officers or event organisers. We’re there to keep everybody safe.
Police in Edinburgh have launched their annual campaign to keep the public safe and deter fireworks-related disorder over Bonfire Night.
Operation Crackle, which runs from today (Thursday 4th November), to Saturday 6th November, sees local officers deployed throughout the city to address the range of criminality that typically arise as a result of the antisocial use of fireworks during the bonfire period.
In advance community policing teams have been working alongside the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the City of Edinburgh Council and may other partners, to engage with young people through various channels and discuss the risks and consequences of using fireworks recklessly.
Officers have also carried out joint patrols with council Environmental Wardens and members of the fire service to carry out environmental audits and identify and safely remove any debris or materials that could be used to start bonfires.
In addition to Operation Crackle, Police Scotland has also launched its national public order response for Halloween and Bonfire Night, Operation Moonbeam.
As part of this campaign, a range of specialist and national resources will be available to Edinburgh’s officers if they are required.
The city’s dispersal zones will once again be in operation as an additional tactic to tackle and deter antisocial behaviour and disorder.
The zones will run between 4th and 6th November from 2pm to midnight each day.
Like the past four years, the zones include Muirhouse, West Pilton, Portobello, Loganlea, Saughton, Gorgie, Gilmerton, Moredun and Southhouse and enable police to instruct groups of two or more people who are congregating and behaving in an antisocial manner in these areas to disperse.
Those who fail to comply, or fail to stay away for up to 24 hours, can face arrest.
Chief Inspector Murray Tait from Edinburgh Division said: “Last year saw unprecedented restrictions placed on the public, in terms of gatherings within their homes and gardens, as well as all public bonfire and fireworks displays being cancelled and we are yet to see the return of such events.
“If you are planning to purchase and use fireworks over the coming days and weeks then please do so responsibly and within reasonable times of the day, so as not to disturb and distress vulnerable members of our community.
“We have been working alongside our various partners in advance to mitigate against fireworks-related disorder but nevertheless, we still anticipate a very busy period for ourselves and the other emergency services.
“We are committed to keeping not only the public, but our officers and emergency service colleagues safe, and we are grateful that Operation Crackle officers will once again be supported by the specialist resources as part of Operation Moonbeam.
“I would ask that parents and guardians have frank conversations with the young people in their care and remind them that behaving recklessly with fireworks can not only put lives at risk, but will result in arrest and a criminal record.”
Children’s Commissioner Bruce Adamson is urging police to treat young people peacefully protesting at COP-26 with respect and dignity – and has reminded them that children’s rights must be upheld for everyone under 18.
The guide has been used as part of Police Scotland’s training for COP-26 and was informed by children’s views and experiences.
Bruce Adamson, Children and Young People’s Commissioner said: “I have written to Police Scotland and have received strong commitments that they will facilitate peaceful protest with human rights at the heart of their approach, and it is important that this happens.
“Police officers have a duty to uphold children’s human rights during COP-26, which include the rights to peaceful assembly and association, alongside their rights to expression, participation, information and protection.”
Climate justice has been consistently raised by children and young people as one of their biggest human rights concerns.
Emma, 16, a Young Adviser to the Commissioner, said: “The right to protest is important as it gives people the opportunity to create change. It gives us a voice and the ability to hold institutions accountable for their actions.
“It is one of the only ways young people can be heard and immediately have a connection with one another, creating a sense of unity. It promotes equality and allows for individuals and groups views to have a chance to be recognised. The information in this guide about our rights to protest is really useful as we make our voices heard at COP-26 and beyond.”
The Commissioner added: “Children have shown incredible leadership on the issue of climate justice and continue to act as human rights defenders for everyone’s rights across Scotland and internationally.
“They have led powerful, peaceful movements in the streets, for example during school strikes, online, and in court. It is essential that children and young people are empowered to participate and engage in their right to peaceful protest.”
The Commissioner’s guide includes rights information and support, in the event of a child under 18 being arrested or detained by police.
Mr Adamson said: “Arresting a child should always be a measure of last resort, however, it may happen, and children need to know their rights if it does. We’ve included information about children’s rights to contact their family, social worker and to speak to a lawyer, to complain and to ask for release. Any child arrested or detained must be treated with human dignity and respect.”
The Commissioner repeated his call that no child should be punished for taking part in peaceful protests: “There must be no reprisals or sanctions for children who peacefully protest during COP-26 and schools should support children to participate in the opportunities that COP-26 affords them.”
Commuters urged to consider pressure on motorways and railways
As Scotland prepares to host the COP26 climate change conference in Glasgow, the demand on the transport network is expected to be unprecedented.
While many people across the country have already heeded warnings in the run up to the event, the impact on the motorway network and railways should not be underestimated.
With major road closures in place, further factors that will impact getting in and around the central belt include various protest activities – planned and unplanned – as well as non-COP26 related events such as bad weather, Halloween and major sporting fixtures.
Members of the public are therefore being urged to avoid any unnecessary travel especially during the first few days of the conference.
Nicola Blaney, head of events resilience for Transport Scotland, said: “There will be severe disruption on transport networks and we therefore urge people to consider their travel plans very carefully.
“Across the network, we know certain dates are due to be much busier than others especially November 1, 2, 5 and 6. This weekend is also likely to be very heavily congested, and we need people to help us to avoid gridlock and crucially, leave space for key workers and emergency services to make essential journeys.
“We’ve been encouraging people to work from home as a way of reducing the risk of Covid – which would also help ease pressure on the transport network during the conference’s peak.”
Road closures are already in place for public safety with Glasgow’s Clydeside Expressway now fully closed till November 14.
The M8 will be subject to lane restrictions and road closures from 8pm on October 30 until 6am on November 15. The Tradeston M8 On-slip at West Street will be closed with no access to North Street/Charing Cross.
A signed diversion route will be in place from West Street to North Street, via Kingston Street, George V Bridge and the Broomielaw. Access to Bothwell Street from the M8 Eastbound at Junction 18 will remain open.
The public is advised to visit the Get Ready Glasgow website:
which provides all the travel details and will be regularly updated with all the latest information for commuters and businesses as well as details on alternative routes, local road closure dates and where local access will be maintained.
Further road restrictions which will come into effect next week include road closures from Monday November 1 around Argyle Street – one of the main diversion routes – because of a COP26 event. This will increase congestion and put additional strain on the road network.
Friday November 5 and Saturday November 6 are also expected to be extremely busy, due to planned climate change related marches going from Kelvingrove Park into the city centre and Glasgow Green.
Police Scotland’s assistant chief constable Bernard Higgins, said: “Our aim is to deliver a safe and secure event, whilst keeping the city, and indeed the country, operational and moving.”
This year two Dispersal Zones are being set up in North West Edinburgh to combat antisocial behaviour and disorder over the bonfire period. The zones will be in operation between 2pm and midnight from Thursday 4th to Saturday 6th November.
Under the Antisocial Behaviour (Scotland) Act 2004, police have a Power of Dispersal within the designated zones authorised by Superintendent David Robertson.
This means that Police can instruct any people in groups of two or more who are congregating and behaving in an antisocial manner to disperse, and if they do not live there to leave the zones, and then not to return for up to 24 hours.
If they do return, they can be arrested.
Nine dispersal zones will be set up across the city in known ‘hot spots’. As well as West Pilton and Muirhouse, zones will be established in Portobello, Loganlea, Gilmerton, Moredun, Southhouse, Gorgie and Saughton.
News of the establishment of Dispersal Zones will come as no surprise to local residents – the real surprise is that these dispersal zones will be in place over one weekend only.
Edinburgh’s travelling public have been urged to plan ahead during the COP26 conference, as part of a new communications campaign launched today by the City of Edinburgh Council and its partners.
The Council has joined with Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, with support from Police Scotland and local transport providers, to share the ‘plan ahead and stay informed’ message, as the major event approaches.
Around 140 world leaders and 25,000 delegates are expected to gather in Glasgow between 31 October and 12 November to agree next steps in tackling the climate crisis. As a result, roads and public transport services across the central belt, including in Edinburgh, are anticipated to be busier than usual and journeys are likely to take longer during this time.
From today, and throughout the coming weeks, messages will be shared through the media, social media and digital and on-street advertising suggesting people plan any travel ahead to minimise disruption, avoid peak times and work from home if possible.
The Council has worked closely with the Chamber of Commerce to create a new dedicated website, highlighting the latest travel information and to provide support and advice for local businesses. It also highlights some of the fantastic work going on around Edinburgh helping to achieve its 2030 net zero target.
Council Leader Adam McVey said: “COP26 is a major event for Scotland and we’ve been gearing up to support it for many months, along with partners like the Scottish and UK Governments, Police Scotland and transport providers.
“While most of the events will take place in the host city of Glasgow, it’s going be extremely busy in Edinburgh. A huge number of people will be staying in the Capital and our own programme of events means Edinburgh will share some of the hosting responsibilities.
“That’s why, today, we’re launching a campaign urging people to take stock if they’re planning to travel during the two-week conference, whether it’s between Edinburgh and Glasgow or here in the Capital. We know there’s going to be more traffic on the roads so please plan any journeys ahead, avoid peak times and work from home if you can.
“It’s also an opportunity to think about how we get from A to B in our compact, walkable city. As leaders from around the world prepare to tackle the urgent issue of climate change, we’re encouraging everyone to think about how they can lower their own carbon footprints where possible to embrace the spirit of COP, considering swapping car trips for walking, wheeling, cycling or taking our outstanding public transport.”
Depute Leader Cammy Day said: “We want to make sure the city keeps moving and remains open for business throughout COP26. Officers from public safety, traffic information and resilience teams, amongst others, have been hard at work planning, in collaboration with partners, to make sure this will be the case.
“As part of the campaign we’re also encouraging the public to consider their travel choices and the impact these have on the world around us. With road traffic accounting for almost a third of greenhouse gas emissions in the city, swapping the car for a journey by foot, wheel, bike or public transport both supports our net zero goals and can avoid disruption during this busy period.”
Nicola Blaney, Head of Events Resilience for Transport Scotland, added: “While the main event is in Glasgow, the demand on our public transport and wider network is expected to be unprecedented and will have a severe knock-on impact on journey times in surrounding areas, stretching across the central belt and possibly beyond.
“There are also a number of additional factors from protest activity, planned and unplanned, as well as non-COP26-related activities such as major sporting events and marches.
“I would urge people to plan ahead and consider whether any journeys they make are necessary. Certain days are going to be much busier than others – the 1, 2, 5 and 6 of November in particular – so consider your travel needs. Work remotely if you can or make alternative arrangements. Avoid peak hours if possible, and retime and reroute if you want to avoid congested areas.”
The new dedicated web pages will include the most up-to-date travel information while the @edintravel traffic information team will be carefully monitoring the city’s roads seven days a week, sharing the latest information on disruption and diversions on Twitter. We’ll also be liaising with Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams to keep people informed about their services.
A second strand of the campaign will focus on Edinburgh’s own sustainability targets, and the part individuals, businesses and organisations across the city can play. This will showcase some of the ground-breaking innovations underway to deliver a climate-ready, resilient city, and highlight the change that is needed to achieve our net zero by 2030 goal.
Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins, Police Scotland, said: “A considerable part of our planning for COP26 has been to ensure that there is minimal disruption to communities of Scotland as a result of the policing operation.
“However, some disruption is inevitable with an event of this significance and the increased number of visitors to Edinburgh and Glasgow, in particular. The road network across the central belt will be busier than normal and people should allow extra time for their journeys.”
A spokesperson from the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce said: “With the projected increases in traffic and journeys, and with potential disruptions because this global and essential event is taking place in Scotland, it makes perfect sense for us all to plan our journeys carefully and – wherever possible – use an alternative to the car.
“It helps the environment and it may well get you to your destination faster.”
http://ourwatch.org.uk/webinars @ Mon 15th Nov 5-6pm to find out about the impact antisocial behaviour has on communities & how together we can tackle this growing problem
We’d like to support Care Experienced Week by reaffirming our commitment and sharing our Care Experienced Pledge which was developed following discussions with the Edinburgh Champions Board on what we can do to better support those with care experience.
The Edinburgh City Division Care Experienced Pledge will guarantee the following:
Where it is identified to police that a care experienced young person has concern for their personal safety at home, we will guarantee a meeting to discuss a safety plan and offer advice should they wish to accept such an offer.
Where a care experienced young person is identified as wanting to join the police (as a constable, special constable or member of police staff) and meets the minimum criteria for application, we will: • facilitate a meeting with a serving probationer constable or member of police staff to discuss the practicalities and demands of the role, and • offer support with the recruitment process via the Divisional Training Sergeant or police staff equivalent, and • guarantee them a meeting with a member of the Local Area Command team should they wish support in the application process
Where it is identified that a care experienced young person has been successful in the recruitment process and wishes additional support, we will identify a mentor for them for the length of their probationary period.
We will actively promote the Police Scotland Youth Volunteers programme to care experienced young people.
Police are appealing for information after a serious road crash in Edinburgh on Sunday (24 October).
Around 4.15pm on Sunday afternoon, a road crash took place on Seafield Road involving a Nissan Juke and a Volvo V40.
Emergency services attended and the 85 year-old female driver of the Volvo, her 87-year-old male passenger, and the 32-year-old male driver of the Nissan were all taken by Ambulance to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.
Hospital staff describe the condition of the 87-year-old man as critical, the condition of the 85-year-old woman as serious but stable, and the 32-year-old man as serious but stable.
Sergeant Iain McIntyre of the Divisional Road Policing Unit at Dalkeith is appealing for any witnesses to the crash, or anyone with dash-cam footage to contact 101 quoting reference number 2518 of 24 October.
