Two charged after firework stash found in storage unit

Police and youth clashed in Niddrie on Bonfire Night in 2023

Two men have been charged after a large haul of fireworks were recovered from a storage unit in West Lothian earlier this month.

Police said the men, aged 18 and 25, were arrested after 200kg of fireworks were found in East Calder after an intelligence-led operation on 15 October.

Det Insp Steven Dick, from Edinburgh CID, said he believed the fireworks were "intended to be used for disorder and violence over the coming weeks".

Anti-social behaviour and public disorder have blighted Bonfire Night celebrations for the past few years and senior officers have vowed to catch and prosecute anyone using fireworks to target emergency services and the public.

In 2023, more than 60 police officers were injured, many after coming under attack with fireworks and petrol bombs.

The most serious disorder took place in the Niddrie area of Edinburgh, where a group of 50 youths threw fireworks and petrol bombs at riot police.

Earlier this week, police announced that public order officers will use body-worn cameras to gather evidence and identify suspects during any incidents.

Fireworks Control Zones will also be used in Glasgow and Edinburgh between 31 October and 9 November, making it illegal for the public to set off fireworks within certain areas.

The measures were first introduced only in Edinburgh last year and will now cover nine areas in the capital and three in Glasgow.

Det Insp Dick said "We know the significant impact the criminal use of fireworks has had on communities, vital services and emergency workers during the last few years, and this will not be tolerated."

He said officers will gather more intelligence in order to prevent disruption and "bring to justice those who intend to cause fear and injury during the Bonfire Night period."