BLOOD ON THE STREETS
Two incidents in four days as rivals clash in town centre
Four men have been arrested following outbreaks of targeted violence – including two stabbings – in front of shocked onlookers in Rutherglen town centre.
Last Tuesday afternoon, two men – understood to be brothers – were attacked by another two males and stabbed in broad daylight. The first victim, aged 35, was assaulted on King Street at 3.20pm. The second, aged 37, was then targeted on the Main Street. Both were taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital where they were treated for stab wounds before being released. Parts of the Main Street were taped off as police investigated the incident. Then on Friday afternoon, another fight – believed to involve the same four men – broke out in the Co-op store on the Main Street, before spilling out
on to the street in front of stunned shoppers. The shop was forced to close until Saturday afternoon to allow staff to clear up the mess.
One witness told the Reformer: “It was unbelievable. The shop was all smashed up, with broken glass all over the place.
“It had to close and was all taped off and right round to the chapel was cordoned off too, as that’s where the fight ended up. It was some scene. It’s worrying because the stabbing earlier in the week happened in the middle of the afternoon and this happened in broad daylight too.
“Rutherglen town centre is rapidly becoming a place to avoid.”
Inspector Stephen McManus, of Rutherglen police office, told the Reformer: “I would like to reassure the public that the incidents which occurred on Rutherglen Main Street were targeted acts by the males involved. However these crimes were carried out during the day in a busy shopping area with an absolute disregard for public safety.
“Tackling violence in our communities is a priority for Police Scotland and a co-ordinated response has been undertaken by specialist officers to identify those involved.
“As a result of the investigation, four males have been arrested and will be appearing at Glasgow Sheriff Court. Violence in our communities is not acceptable and we will continue to work with the public and our partners to address this priority.”
A Co-op spokesperson said: “We can confirm there was an altercation at the Co-op in Rutherglen on Friday. No colleagues were harmed and the incident is being investigated by the police. The store reopened on Saturday afternoon to serve the community.”