Police tackle Halloween fireworks incidents in Lothian in Operation Moonbeam crackdown
Reports of fireworks thrown at members of public in Bonnyrigg and Tranent
Police in Edinburgh issued seven dispersal orders on Halloween and inquiries are under way into reports of fireworks being lit in the street and thrown at members of the public in Bonnyrigg and Tranent.
Police Scotland said it received a total of 144 calls across the country on Saturday relating to fireworks, compared with 160 last year – a reduction of around 10 per cent.
It said specialist officers were on hand to support local policing teams attending various reports of antisocial behaviour during the evening, but there had been no offences which required a specific public order response.
“In Tranent, Bonnyrigg and Glasgow there were reports of fireworks being lit in the street and some were thrown at members of the public. Inquiries to identify those involved are ongoing.
“Officers in Edinburgh also responded to a report of a disturbance at a house party in the Ratho area of the city. This incident was not related to the criminal or antisocial use of fireworks.
“Seven Dispersal Orders were issued in Edinburgh. There were no charges for breaches of Firework Control Zones.”
Police added that there were no reports of police officers involved in Saturday’s operation having been injured.
Chief Superintendent David Robertson, Gold Commander for Operation Moonbeam, which is aimed at tackling firework-related crime and disorder, said: “The overwhelming majority of Scotland’s communities have celebrated Halloween in the proper spirit and I'm really grateful for the support of our efforts tonight to deter criminality, respond to reports of disorder and protect the public and emergency services from harm.
“Sadly, however, we have again experienced incidents of fireworks used as projectiles at buildings, vehicles and members of the public.
“I will say again, this type of behaviour is completely unacceptable and has to stop before there are serious consequences.
“Investigations into these offences will be launched immediately to identify those responsible and bring them to justice, but I want to recognise and celebrate the outstanding behaviour and co-operation most of those within our communities have demonstrated tonight.
“Moonbeam resources will continue to support local policing teams all over the country throughout the next week wherever they are required and whenever reports of fireworks-related crime are received, we will respond swiftly and proportionately.”