Three charged after Rangers fans' sectarian singing

A group of fans was intercepted by police in the Jamaica Street area of the city centre

Three men have been arrested and charged with singing racist songs in Glasgow.

It came after footage emerged online on Monday appearing to show Rangers fans singing a sectarian song before the first Old Firm game of the season at Ibrox.

Police said the men, aged 19, 21 and 24, were the first of "numerous" arrests expected.

Ch Supt Mark Sutherland said racist conduct "would not be tolerated".

The divisional commander for Greater Glasgow said: "We have made the first of what I expect to be numerous arrests following the disgraceful racial conduct shown by a minority of Rangers supporters who were making their way to Ibrox Stadium on Sunday, 29 August.

"Three men were arrested and charged last night, Wednesday, 1 September, in connection with racially aggravated offences towards a member of the public and for the singing of racist material.

"This racist conduct will not be tolerated and our investigations are continuing."

He said that Police Scotland would continue to work with Rangers to identify and take appropriate action against those responsible.

Earlier in the week, Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins defended the actions of the officers who came across the fans.

He said anti-Irish and anti-Catholic behaviour was "wholly unacceptable".

Rangers FC released a statement on Thursday saying they had written to three individuals to confirm their indefinite ban from all club fixtures.

The club said: "We reiterate our club stance against all forms of discrimination and once again., underline our approach to so-called 'fans' who bring the good name of Rangers FC into disrepute."

The three men were released to appear at Glasgow Sheriff Court at a later date.