Police in Scotland to escort fire crews in latest crackdown on Bonfire Night disorder
Scottish police are implementing a major operation to protect firefighters from attacks during Bonfire Night, including embedding officers in fire crews. This follows a trend of increasing disorder and the decline of large, council-run public displays.
Why it matters
The escalation of public order operations highlights growing safety concerns and the changing nature of community celebrations in the UK.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Police on patrol in Edinburgh during last year's Bonfire night public order operation
Police officers are to be embedded in fire stations and will travel with crews to tackle potential attacks on firefighters during Bonfire Night.
The move is part of Scotland's biggest police operation since the visit of President Donald Trump last summer and a response to a "unique" combination of safety concerns.
As many as 1,700 officers could be deployed to deal with fireworks-related disorder, a European football match involving Celtic and potential protests in Glasgow.
Additional public order vehicles and drivers are being brought in from 18 English and Welsh police forces under mutual aid arrangements.
Emergency services have long recommended organised displays as the safest and often most impressive way of enjoying fireworks.
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