Police attacked with fireworks and bottles ahead of cup semi-final

Published8 hours ago

Police Scotland officers were attacked with fireworks and glass bottles ahead of the Rangers v Aberdeen league cup semi-final.

The disorder, which also involved "other missiles", happened on Curtis Avenue before the game at Hampden on Saturday.

Several officers were assaulted during the "targeted" incident while two fans were also hurt but did not require medical attention.

The force said a man was also arrested in a separate incident outside the stadium in in connection with an assault.

Supt Paul Douglas said: "This violence is disgraceful and will not be tolerated.

"Being assaulted is not part of the job and it's extremely fortunate they were not seriously injured.

"Those involved should be in no doubt that they will be identified and arrested."

He added inquiries were ongoing to trace those responsible and confirmed officers would work closely with both clubs.

Douglas said: "We recognise that only a small percentage of fans behave in such a way and cause disorder, but I would encourage all fans to take personal responsibility for their conduct."

He asked anyone with information to contact Police Scotland, external.

Officers also responded to a number of incidents on Sunday during the second semi-final, between Edinburgh rivals Hearts and Hibernian.

Four men, aged between 24 and 37, were arrested during the match for offences including threatening and abusive behaviour and possession of pyrotechnics.

They were released on an undertaking and will appear before Glasgow Sheriff Court at a later date.

Police said another man was charged and reported to the fiscal for alleged vandalism in the national stadium.

Two men also received police warnings for threatening and abusive behaviour.

A 28-year-old man was later arrested and charged outside the stadium for similar offences and will be reported to the fiscal.

Another man was issued with a recorded police warning for threatening and abusive behaviour.

The force also confirmed three men and a woman will be reported to the fiscal for pyrotechnic offences, as well as threatening and abusive behaviour.

Rangers beat Aberdeen 1-0 after a late strike by Ryan Nadeeri to secure their place in the final.

Derek McInnes' side will face Hibs at Hampden on 13 December, after they came from behind to beat Hearts 2-1.

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