Police Respond to 144 Fireworks Incidents on Halloween in Scotland
Authorities report a decrease in fireworks-related calls compared to the previous year, but incidents involving pyrotechnics thrown at people and property still occurred.
Police Scotland responded to 144 fireworks-related calls on Halloween night, a decrease from the 160 calls received on October 31 of the previous year. Despite the overall reduction, officers reported instances where fireworks were directed at people, buildings, and vehicles in various parts of Scotland.
In general, police noted "outstanding behaviour and co-operation" across the country, but investigations are underway to identify those responsible for the disorder. Firework Control Zones (FCZs), where it is an offense to set off fireworks, were established in 14 areas of Edinburgh and four in Glasgow. These zones are in effect until early November, with dispersal zones also implemented in some locations.
Reports of fireworks being lit in the street and thrown at members of the public emerged from Glasgow, Tranent in East Lothian, and Bonnyrigg in Midlothian. No police officers were reported injured during these incidents, and inquiries to identify those involved are ongoing.
Operation Moonbeam, the annual police response to firework-linked criminality, is currently active and will continue until November 5. This operation involves specially trained officers to manage potential violence and disorder. This initiative is in its ninth year.
Ch Supt David Robertson stated, "The overwhelming majority of Scotland's communities have celebrated Halloween in the proper spirit and I'm really grateful for the support of our efforts tonight to deter criminality, respond to reports of disorder and protect the public and emergency services from harm." He added, "Sadly, however, we have again experienced incidents of fireworks used as projectiles at buildings, vehicles and members of the public. This type of behaviour is completely unacceptable and has to stop before there are serious consequences."
Investigations into these incidents are being launched, and Operation Moonbeam officers will continue to support local policing teams in addressing fireworks-related crime over the coming week.