Fifteen arrests were made on Saturday after a confrontation between anti-immigration far-right group Unite the Clans and anti-racism demonstrators in Glasgow, with police reporting 'significant disorder' on Glasgow Green.
Clashes erupt between rival protesters
Footage from the day captured the mob throwing bottles at police officers, who described the actions as 'thuggery' and 'assault'. The crowd, waving Scottish flags, had been heard shouting 'get them out' and 'send them back' towards 'illegal migrants', though no proof was provided. They were accused of hurling insults at visibly non-white members of the public.
The anti-racism group, called by Stand Up to Racism and Women Against the Far Right, arrived at 11am, playing Abba songs, making speeches, and waving placards and Palestine flags. They attempted to march but were turned back by police.
Police deploy batons to restore order
Anti-immigration demonstrators gathered an hour later for their pre-planned demo, with some men wearing balaclavas and waving flares that released blue and white smoke. Unite the Clans had about 500 attendees, while the counter-protesters numbered 4,000. Officers had to draw batons to separate the groups.
Chief Superintendent Emma Croft stated: 'We have seen significant disorder from disparate groups in Glasgow today at what should have been peaceful, lawful protests. Incidents of this nature can understandably cause a great deal of concern, and our officers took quick and decisive action to protect the public.'
Arrests and condemnation
The arrests were made in connection with assault, possession of offensive weapons, breach of the peace, obstruction, and resisting arrest. Croft called it 'completely unacceptable behaviour' and warned that participants would be 'identified and held to account for their actions'.
Justice Secretary Neil Gray implored the public not to resort to 'violence' and 'racist thuggery', echoing Croft's pledge that 'any kind of intimidation and other tactics that seek to divide our country will be met with the full force of the law'.
Broader context of unrest
Secretary of State for Scotland Douglas Alexander cited the protests for 'spreading division and fear' as Glasgow hosts the Commonwealth Games. He said: 'As the eyes of the world fall on Glasgow with the Commonwealth Games and the city welcomes people from all over the globe, it is disappointing that people are choosing to spread division.'
Unite the Clans made headlines in March when a protest was held outside the Scottish Parliament, where members chanted 'send them home' and shouted taunts. Counter-protesters again turned out in dozens, prompting a heavy police presence.
