In the aftermath of the violent disorder that unfolded in both Edinburgh and Glasgow on Bonfire Night, authorities have made significant progress in their investigation. A total of seven additional arrests have been made, with 14 others being identified as potential suspects. This brings the total number of arrests to nine since the incident occurred on November 5, 2023.
Regarding the disorder in the Niddrie area of Edinburgh, a 31-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman were arrested and charged with fireworks offences. Both individuals have been released on an undertaking to appear in court at a later date. Additionally, an 18-year-old man and a 13-year-old boy were arrested and charged with culpable and reckless conduct, as well as being in possession of a weapon. The 18-year-old will appear in court at a later date, while the 13-year-old has been reported to the relevant authorities.
Furthermore, 14 others have been identified in connection with the disorder in the Edinburgh area, and efforts are underway to establish their identities. In Glasgow, a 17-year-old man was arrested and charged with assault and possession of a weapon. Two other individuals, aged 16 and 17, were arrested and charged with assault. Reports on these cases will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
The investigation into both incidents is ongoing, and further arrests are expected in the coming weeks. Authorities are appealing to the public for information and have set up Major Incident Public Portals (MIPP) for both Edinburgh and Glasgow. These portals allow individuals to submit information, including videos and images, directly to the police. The MIPP for Edinburgh can be accessed at https:///mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT23S38-PO1, while the MIPP for Glasgow can be accessed at https:///mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT23S39-PO1.
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, Gold Commander for Operation Moonbeam, commended the bravery, discipline, and professionalism demonstrated by the officers in the face of the violence on Bonfire Night. He acknowledged the physical injuries sustained by some officers, but also highlighted the potential mental impact of dealing with such significant levels of violence. Support will be provided to all officers affected, as they too have families and loved ones.
ACC Mairs emphasised that nobody deserves to be injured while carrying out their duties as emergency workers. He urged anyone with information related to the investigation to contact the police at 101 or use the respective MIPP links provided. Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously through CRIMESTOPPERS at 0800 555 111.
