POLICE Scotland has released a statement ahead of pro-Palestinian rallies planned in Scotland this weekend.
Activists are set to gather at a number of demonstrations across Scotland to call for a ceasefire in Gaza.
The events are being organised by the Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign (SPSC) – a group consisting of religious organisations and activists including Scottish Friends of Palestine and the Muslim Community of Scotland.
The demonstrations come against the backdrop of heightened political tensions, with a pro-Palestinian march in London on Armistice Day being branded “provocative and disrespectful” by the Prime Minister.
The Palestine Solidarity Campaign behind the London demonstration anticipated more than 500,000 people would join their protest to back a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel in what it billed as one of the largest political marches in British history.
Police Scotland issued a statement stating the public "may see more officers that usual".
Assistant chief constable Gary Ritchie said: “Protests so far have been largely peaceful and groups from all perspectives have maintained good engagement with policing.
“We continue to engage with those organising demonstrations to ensure rights to peaceful assembly and protest are protected while minimising disruption to communities.
“Public safety is our priority and people may see more officers than usual in our cities and towns this weekend.
“Hate crime, violence or abuse do not represent legitimate protest and we will respond professionally to offending.”
Activists will host rallies in:
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Glasgow at the Buchanan Street steps at 12pm
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Edinburgh on Waverly Bridge at 12pm
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Dundee in the city centre at 2pm
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Forres on the high street at 2pm
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Aberdeen at Westburn Park at 2pm
