90 fans refused entry to Celtic Park ahead of Old Firm clash
Pyrotechnics were let off when fans were detained outside the stadium
A group of 90 fans was denied entry to Celtic Park for Saturday’s Old Firm clash after police decided they posed a threat to the safety of people inside the stadium.
While the group, many of whom had hidden their identity, were contained, a number of pyrotechnics were set of, causing a fire which police say endangered “both the public and officers”.
No one was injured in the incident at Parkhead, and all 90 of the group involved have been reported to the Procurator Fiscal in relation to Section 60.
The Section 60 powers were granted to officers in Glasgow from 8am on March 16 until 11.59pm, allowing police to stop anyone on foot or in a vehicle, and to remove anything they think may be used to conceal their identity.
"I would thank them for their good conduct"
A 20 year old man was arrested at the match, charged with an alleged police assault on approach to the stadium.
He has since been released and is set to appear in court at a later date.
A 46 year old man has also been reported to the Procurator Fiscal for allegedly being in possession of a pyrotechnic.
Chief Superintendent Stevie Dolan, who led the policing operation, said:
"Again, the vast majority of fans were simply there to enjoy the match and I would thank them for their good conduct.
"It was necessary to apply containment tactics"
"It was necessary to apply containment tactics to maintain public safety and deal effectively with those intent on disruption or non-compliance with relevant legislation, including powers under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994.
“As a result, some groups of supporters missed the game, but that was their choice.
"Our priority is and always will be the safety of fans in and around the stadium and the general public in the wider city.
“To support that, enforcement of Section 60 and other legislation was undertaken proportionately, with search powers being enacted in a targeted manner.
"A significant number of pyrotechnics were seized"
"Non-compliance with the Section 60 powers resulted in 90 people being reported to the Procurator Fiscal.
“Others have been arrested or reported for other offences, including the assault of a police officer.
"A significant number of pyrotechnics were seized or prevented from entering the stadium, which again demonstrates the disregard that some supporters have for the safety of others.
"We will continue to work with partners, including the clubs, to improve safety and order and to ensure that the sporting event is the real focus."
Rayo Premium