2 men arrested after violent clashes in Govan

Police have promised a 'thorough and robust" inquiry after protesters against an Irish unity march sparked a riot

Author: Selena Jackson Published 30th Aug 2019

Last updated 31st Aug 2019

Two people have been arrested after a protest against an Irish unity march sparked a riot in Glasgow.

Riot police, mounted officers, a force helicopter and dog units were used to quell "significant disorder'' in Govan on Friday.

Officers said the planned march, organised by the James Connolly Republican Flute Band, was met by hundreds of "disruptive'' counter-demonstrators at around 7pm.

The force said this led to "significant disorder'' around Govan Road, which was blocked by officers.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon condemned the incident as "unacceptable''.

She tweeted: "What happened in Govan last night was utterly unacceptable. My thanks to @policescotland for their response. I welcome Glasgow City Council's commitment to review the procedures around marches. Peaceful protest is a part of our democracy - violent and sectarian disruption is not.''

Witnesses reported smoke bombs being used and police have promised a 'thorough and robust" inquiry

Chief Superintendent Mark Hargreaves said: "Police Scotland has a duty to facilitate processions and any peaceful protest, but this kind of behaviour by persons demonstrating against the parade is utterly unacceptable.

"It is extremely disappointing to see people acting in this fashion, causing fear and alarm to members of the public as well as putting many people at risk.

"A range of policing resources are in place as part of a multi-agency response. Specialist public order officers in full protective equipment, the mounted section, air support and dog units have been deployed and we are using proportionate tactics to de-escalate the situation as quickly and safely as possible.

"Police Scotland will undertake a thorough and robust enquiry and take any necessary action against those found to have been causing disruption."

Witnesses reported smoke bombs being used.

Glasgow City Council advised of the road block in a traffic bulletin, and Govan Subway Station also closed due to the incident but has since reopened.

It also said on Twitter the scenes were 'unacceptable' and that the city 'needs and wants fewer marches.'

Also that: "The council is clear that the law expects it to facilitate public processions; including those that some people oppose or find offensive.

"However, this cannot continue to be at the expense of the overwhelming majority of Glasgwegians, who want nothing to do with these marches, or counter-protests.

"The city needs and wants fewer marches. We are prepared to consider any action that will protect communities from morons intent on bringing mayhem to the streets of our city"

Once the road reopened around 9.45pm, a few police vehicles remained in the area, including riot vans.

Debris and what appeared to be makeshift barriers could be seen at the side of the road.

The First Minister has also tweeted branding last night's riots in Govan 'utterly unacceptable' and welcomed the council's commitment to review procedures around marches.

Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf has also thanked Police Scotland for 'dealing with this incident robustly'

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