Bonfire Night proved to be a challenging event for emergency services across Scotland, with firefighters responding to more than 1,000 calls. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service reported that their crews faced significant disruptions, as they were “bombarded” by fireworks and missiles. This year’s festivities were marred by multiple attacks on both firefighters and police officers, prompting concerns about public safety.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service revealed that there were six distinct incidents in which emergency teams were targeted. Locations included three attacks in Clydebank, two in Edinburgh, and one in Blackridge. The police reported similar incidents where officers faced assaults involving fireworks, bricks, and bottles. Although serious disorder incidents decreased compared to previous years, the police condemned the violence as “wholly unacceptable.”
According to Andy Watt, Deputy Chief Officer of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, such aggressive behavior stems from a small minority of individuals. He acknowledged community support as vital in maintaining safety during the Bonfire period.
In Edinburgh and Glasgow, police responded to disturbances caused by large groups of youths throwing projectiles at vehicles and officers. A police helicopter was deployed for aerial surveillance during these operations.
For the first time, control zones were established in certain areas of Edinburgh to restrict firework usage until November 10. Although similar measures were planned for Glasgow, they were postponed due to administrative errors. Reports indicated pockets of unrest in Glasgow, where youths targeted civilians and emergency personnel with fireworks.
Despite the chaos, authorities confirmed that there were no injuries reported from incidents in Glasgow or Edinburgh. However, a 25-year-old man was arrested in Drumchapel after a significant quantity of fireworks was discovered in his van; these were allegedly being sold unlawfully to minors.
In a separate incident in Peterhead, a man suffered minor injuries after being struck by a van that had previously set off fireworks at a local skate park.
As part of Operation Moonbeam—a strategy initiated in 2020 to manage disorder during this time—police resources have been mobilized effectively this year with 18 deployments compared to 26 last year. The reduction in officer injuries from 62 last year to just one this year is a positive outcome amid ongoing challenges.
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs noted that while serious disorder did not escalate as it had previously, the aggression faced by emergency personnel remains a critical issue. Ongoing discussions with local authorities aim to explore additional measures for reducing firework-related offenses moving forward.
The UK government has also confirmed support for seven Scottish sites with funding amounting to £20 million, indicating a broader commitment to addressing public safety concerns during festive events.
Firefighter and Police Response to Firework-Related Incidents on Bonfire Night Bonfire Night in Scotland witnessed a surge in emergency calls, with firefighters responding to over 1,000 incidents.
Police Crackdown on Fireworks Anticipated for Bonfire Night in Edinburgh As Bonfire Night approaches, police in Edinburgh are gearing up to utilize stop and search powers in specific neighborhoods to preemptively address potential disturbances.