Riot police were deployed in Edinburgh after multiple reports of attacks on police vehicles and buses by individuals launching fireworks and other projectiles. The disturbances occurred around Hay Avenue in the Niddrie district, prompting authorities to advise the public to steer clear of the area.
Last year, a similar situation unfolded, with around 100 youths engaging in confrontations with riot officers, hurling fireworks and petrol bombs at them in the same vicinity. Similar incidents have also been reported in Sighthill and Southhouse.
In response to this recent unrest, Lothian Buses announced the suspension of at least nine bus routes due to the ongoing antisocial conduct. A representative from Lothian Buses emphasized their strict stance against such behavior, stating that the safety of their staff and passengers is their top priority.
To manage the situation, road closures have been implemented at the junctions of Niddrie Mains Road with Duddingston Park South and Greendykes Road. Police have indicated that additional support is being provided to help restore order.
This outbreak of disorder coincided with the enforcement of a new law that restricts the use of fireworks in specific areas of Edinburgh, including Niddrie, ahead of Bonfire Night. The Firework Control Zone will be active from November 1 to November 10, during which setting off private fireworks will be considered a criminal act.
In 2022, the Scottish government granted local authorities new authority to establish ‘firework control zones’ (FCZs) following a significant riot in Dundee. The City of Edinburgh Council was the first in Scotland to approve these regulations in August. Under this law, private firework displays are prohibited unless they are part of an authorized public event.
Despite discussions about extending the control zone citywide, the council’s culture and communities committee opted against such a measure. Information regarding fireworks regulations and associated penalties is being distributed to residents. Authorities have also reported discovering powerful fireworks being marketed on social media platforms, leading to police action that included a raid on a property linked to sales through Facebook and from vehicles.
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