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Daily Record
Daily Record
World
Kirsty Feerick

Cops warn thugs who 'hijack' protests will be arrested if 'disgraceful' George Square scenes repeated

Cops are warning thugs against 'hijacking' protests this weekend after seeing 'disgraceful' scenes at George Square.

Police are cracking down on violence by say they will arrest any trouble makers if the 'utterly unacceptable' riots break out again.

It comes after 'shameful' mobs clashed with pro asylum seeker activists in Glasgow recently resulting in the ugly incident.

Protesters gather in George Square during a Glasgow Says No to Racism event (PA)

Violence erupted after a 'protect the Cenotaph' event was held by the National Defence League just before a planned No Evictions Glasgow group demonstration.

Police Scotland 's response to the chaos was slammed as letting 'fascist thug run wild', according to some SNP politicians.

But detectives have now vowed to provide a 'robust response' if any similar disturbances break out as they have 'no tolerance' for them.

Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins said Police Scotland will continue to provide a robust response to any potential disorder across the country.

He said: "We are aware of a few planned demonstrations and protests which are due to take place across Scotland this weekend.

"We live in a democratic society and Police Scotland is absolutely committed to respecting people's rights to freely and peacefully express their views.

"Recent disorder in George Square saw people hijacking a peaceful event with the intention of violence and thuggery.

"This remains completely and utterly unacceptable and we will not tolerate these scenes, including attacks both physical and verbal on the public and our officers.

"My message to those who have been involved in the disgraceful scenes witnessed over the last couple of weeks is that if you continue to behave like this then be prepared to be arrested.

"We have a comprehensive policing plan in place with access to additional resources that can be deployed very quickly to respond to incidents of disorder anywhere in Scotland.

"However, I would remind people that the lockdown restrictions remain in place and people should only leave their homes for very limited purposes.

"Anyone who wishes to protest should find another way of doing so that keeps everyone safe."

It comes after at least 50 police officers – some carrying riot shields – cleared  Kelvingrove Park yesterday.

Giant crowds swarmed the idea to illegally drink as they enjoyed the hottest day of the year.

Videos emerged of officers swooping on the large groups of youngsters who were ditching strict social distancing and mass gathering rules.

They confiscated alcohol before taking the decision to clear the area through the evening as a police helicopter hovered overhead.

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