Up to 1,700 officers to handle Celtic match and fireworks disorder in Glasgow

Police officers are set to ride along with fire crews in an unprecedented move to protect emergency services during Bonfire Night. According to the BBC ^[1], the initiative, known as Operation Amberlight, sees officers embedded in fire stations across Glasgow and surrounding areas to guard against potential attacks on firefighters.

This year’s deployment marks Scotland’s largest police operation since the visit of Donald Trump last summer. As many as 1,700 officers could be mobilised to handle fireworks-related disorder, alongside policing a high-profile UEFA Europa League match between Celtic and Besiktas. The BBC reported ^[1] that public order vehicles are also being brought in from 18 English and Welsh forces under mutual aid arrangements.

The crackdown follows a "unique" combination of safety concerns, including potential protests in Glasgow. Last year’s violence in Edinburgh’s Niddrie area saw youths hurl petrol bombs and fireworks at officers, leaving 62 injured. To combat this, Fireworks Control Zones (FCZs) have expanded from 12 to 18 areas, banning pyrotechnics in known trouble spots. SFRS Commander Mark Cleland stated ^[1] that these zones have shown benefits, hoping for a further reduction in antisocial behaviour.

Despite the heavy police presence, organised displays remain rare. Glasgow has not held a display at Glasgow Green since before 2019, and Edinburgh’s Meadowbank Stadium display last took place in 2017. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) confirmed ^[1] that only around 20 organised displays have occurred in the last five days, with 79 more planned.

Recent incidents highlight the risks. A firework landed near a pram in Glasgow’s Drumchapel area, leaving a child shaken, while two youths were charged in Bonnyrigg for throwing fireworks in the high street. Police also seized 350kg of fireworks worth £12,000 in Glasgow, some capable of firing 600 rockets. Supt Ross Aitken warned ^[1] that while the majority act responsibly, the police will adopt a "robust response" to those engaging in criminality.

The operation is part of the ninth year of Operation Moonbeam, which has grown significantly since the disorder spike of 2023. With competing events including the Celtic match and online-suggested protests, police face a complex logistical challenge to keep emergency workers and the public safe. Animal welfare groups continue to warn of the distress caused to pets and wildlife, noting that Edinburgh Zoo’s inclusion in a control zone was a positive step.