Man in court over fireworks at rally

A man is to appear in court after fireworks were launched at police during a far-right rally.

Around 50 people took part in the Scottish Defence League’s (SDL) pro-free speech demonstration in Glasgow’s George Square on Saturday, while about 200 were there to counter protest.

One man was arrested after about 40 people – not connected to either group – threw “smoke bombs and pyrotechnics” at officers on North Hanover Street.

No one who was part of either demonstration was arrested.

Superintendent John McBride said: “The SDL demo and the counter protests that took place in George Square on Saturday passed peacefully with no arrests made.

“While the demonstration was taking place, a group of around 40 people who appeared intent on causing disorder were stopped by officers in nearby North Hanover Street.

“Smoke bombs and pyrotechnics were thrown at police officers at this time, however thankfully there was no one injured.”

A 26-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with culpable and reckless conduct and is due to appear at Glasgow Sheriff Court.

The far-right organisation staged the rally calling for police to “deal with Glasgow’s grooming gangs” and promote people’s right to “highlight the issue”.

Unite Against Fascism Scotland organised a counterdemonstration.