Gers fans stop traffic with fireworks display
Police and local politicians slam Covid rule breakers
Celebrating Rangers fans brought traffic to a standstill in Rutherglen on Sunday afternoon as they let off fireworks beside a busy road.
The Ibrox side clinched the Scottish Premiership title after Celtic were held to a 0-0 draw at Dundee United, and supporters across the country flouted Covid rules by taking to the streets to celebrate.
Fans descended on George Square and Ibrox Stadium, while those closer to home marked the event with an impromptu fireworks display.
People on the pedestrian footbridge above also let off flares.
Inspector Kevin Miller confirmed that police received “numerous reports” of disorder caused by gatherings of large groups.
Around 2pm, officers were called to multiple reports of flares, fireworks, large groups of people singing and drinking in streets across Rutherglen and Cambuslang.
These incidents carried on after dark, with officers attending where possible.
Inspector Miller told the Reformer: “In the afternoon and into the evening of Sunday, police received numerous reports of disorder caused by football fans who had gathered in large groups in Main Street and Millcroft Road.
“Fans were on a footbridge and setting off fireworks and flares.
“Officers attended and the group dispersed; this was followed by several more incidents of groups of fans celebrating and breaching Covid-19 regulations throughout Rutherglen and Cambuslang.
“Officers attended and dispersed groups and, where possible, issued Covid fixed penalty fines.”
On Monday, Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey expressed her disappointment at the behaviour.
She posted on Facebook: “Over the past 24 hours, quite understandably, I have received many emails and calls from constituents regarding the disgraceful Covid-breaching events over the weekend.
“With Councillor Janine Calikes, I have written to the local Chief Inspector about serious law-breaking incidents in Rutherglen – including mass gatherings and the display of a sectarian banner.
“I have also written to Glasgow’s Divisional Commander with regard to the actions of many Rangers fans over the weekend in Glasgow, as well as the police’s operational handling of the major incidents.
“My constituents have been unable to visit family and friends, businesses have been required to close, and many people have been unable to have a proper send off for loved ones.
“The actions over the weekend by a substantial number of people have shown no regard for the sacrifices we have been making or the continued efforts of our NHS staff.
“It is incredibly frustrating that this risks undermining the vital public health measures and setting back our hard-won progress.”