Several fire crews came under attack on Bonfire Night
- Published
Several fire crews came under attack in Scotland
Several fire crews were subjected to "completely unacceptable" attacks as they responded to incidents on Bonfire Night.
Firefighters attended 338 bonfires between 17:00 and 22:00 on Monday 5 November.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said there were several attacks on crews, but that no firefighters were seriously injured.
Riot police had to be deployed in Glasgow, after officers were targeted.
The SFRS handled 723 calls from members of the public on Bonfire Night, traditionally their busiest night of the year.
Assistant Chief Officer Lewis Ramsay said: "Attacks on emergency service responders 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 have to escort us at the scene.
"We would like to thank our partners and the vast majority of the law-abiding public for their support, and we hope that they had a safe and enjoyable Bonfire Night."
In Glasgow, some police officers had fireworks thrown at them by a group of up to 40 masked youths.
Riot police
Residents on Herriet Street and Albert Drive in Pollokshields described being forced to hide in their homes for hours as large gangs of youths let off fireworks at houses, cars and police.
Riot police were deployed to help disperse the group, and a 17-year-old boy will be reported to the procurator fiscal in connection with the incident.
Ch Insp Ross Allan said: "Much of the disorder appears to have been pre-planned and I cannot stress strongly enough that this sort of disorder is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
"It is fortunate that no officers or members of the public were injured, although I am aware residents were distressed and upset by the disorder.
"Despite the extensive planning and local engagement undertaken in advance of Halloween and Bonfire Night, it is extremely disappointing that there are people who are reckless enough to set off what appears to be professional or industrial fireworks in the vicinity of houses.
"We will be carrying out investigations into who sold these."
Lessons "will be learnt"
Community Safety Minister Ash Denham said she was waiting to see a report from Police Scotland.
She said: "The Scottish government will not tolerate any attacks on our emergency services.
"I am aware of some reports of antisocial behaviour and attacks on emergency services this year, and recognise the impact this has not only on emergency service personnel but also the communities affected.
"I'd like to thank our emergency services for their dedication and hard work over this busy bonfire period. We will work with partners to review the events of last night and consider any lessons to be learnt."
- Published6 November 2018
- Published5 November 2018
