Two men have been arrested after anti-racism protesters clashed with a far-right group at Glasgow’s George Square. Hundreds of pro-UK protestors flocked to the city centre to attend the gathering, billed as a “Pro-UK Rally” on social media.
The far-right supporters were outnumbered by the Stand Up To Racism (SUTR) campaigners, which was made up of several trade unions, celebrities, faith organisations and football fans. The group were separated by metal barriers and earlier today police were seen kettling crowds of people in balaclavas away from the city centre.
Officers confirmed a 40-year-old man was arrested for a hate crime while a 20-year-old man was arrested for carrying an offensive weapon. Cops say they contained a small group of people to “engage with them” and “maintain public safety”.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “A proportionate policing plan was in place for a planned protest in George Square, Glasgow, today. A 40-year-old man was arrested for a hate crime and a 20-year-old man was arrested for carrying an offensive weapon. Enquiries remain ongoing.
“Officers contained a small group of people to engage with them, maintain public safety and minimise disruption. Containment is an approved tactic used by highly trained officers where a breach of the peace is taking place or is reasonably thought to be imminent.”
The demonstration took place after plans were made by SUTR to “unite against racism and fascism” in Glasgow following riots in England and Northern Ireland in July and August.
Unrest took place after the fatal stabbing of three young girls at a Taylor Swift themed dance class in Southport, Merseyside. Misinformation spread online and claimed an asylum seeker was responsible for the girls’ murders.
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