'Mindless' Bonfire Night thugs will be 'brought to justice', says Edinburgh council leader
Police Scotland Chief Superintendent David Robertson said there had been an overall reduction in disorder, but that the attacks on police were “really concerning”
Edinburgh council leader Jane Meagher has said she is “angry and disappointed” at the attacks on emergency services seen in Edinburgh on Bonfire Night on Thursday.
Ms Meagher said she was encouraged that that the evening was “broadly peaceful”, but condemned the behaviour of a “small minority seemingly intent on causing fear and alarm in our communities”.
She said: “We cannot and must not accept this type of mindless behaviour, in particular the targeting of our emergency services, and I hope those responsible are caught and brought to justice as soon as possible.
“For all that, I’m pleased that the majority of our residents were able to enjoy the celebrations in the way we would expect – with friends and loved ones at community-led displays – and that bus services were able to run as normal.”
She commended the months of planning and preparation by Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, as well as Lothian Buses and community organisations across the city.
She continued: “Our approach has focused on prevention as well as enforcement, from Firework Control Zones to engaging with young people and providing positive alternative activities.
“The organised events across the city also went well, offering families and communities the opportunity to come together. I’m grateful to everyone who has played their part in making these efforts count.
“I’d like to reiterate my thanks to residents for acting responsibly, looking out for one another and helping to keep their neighbourhoods safe – and hope that they will remember Bonfire Night for all the right reasons.”
Speaking at Fettes police station on Friday morning, Chief Superintendent David Robertson of Police Scotland said officers saw a reduction in serious calls and “far fewer” deployments of specialist police.
However, he acknowledged that there were still attacks on officers, firefighters and the Scottish Ambulance Service during the night.
“We saw a reduction in serious calls requiring specialist support, with public order officers only being deployed at one location for a yet relatively short period of time,” Mr Robertson said.
“But sadly, we did still see attacks on police officers, firefighters, and the Scottish Ambulance Service, which is completely unacceptable.”
He said these attacks were “really concerning”, and he recognised that the behaviour seen in some areas of Scotland was “really terrifying”.
“I think in previous years we’ve seen disorder like that in multiple locations across Edinburgh for a long period of time,” Mr Robertson said.
“Last night in Edinburgh, it was one area. It was localised. It was short-lived.
“So I do think that’s a positive.
“But nonetheless, that behaviour is completely unacceptable, and those who were involved will be identified and brought to justice.”