90 people denied entry to Old Firm game over pyrotechnics concerns

A group of 90 people was denied entry into Sunday’s Old Firm match as police feared some of them might set off pyrotechnics.

Police Scotland said the group was denied access due to their refusal to be searched at the Celtic v Rangers game, which kicked off at 12.30pm on Sunday at Celtic Park in Glasgow.

Officers say they believed the group posed a threat to the safety of other patrons at the match, due to the possibility of weapons and pyrotechnics.

While they were contained, they set off the pyrotechnics, causing a fire, which police said endangered the public as well as officers, though nobody was injured.

All of those involved are to be reported to the procurator fiscal.

One arrest was made during the match.

A man, aged 20, was arrested and charged for allegedly assaulting a police officer on approach to the stadium.

He has since been released and is due in court at a later date.

Another man, 46, has been reported to the procurator fiscal for allegedly being in possession of a pyrotechnic.

Chief Superintendent Stevie Dolan, who led the policing operation, said: “Again, the vast majority of fans were simply there to enjoy the match and I would thank them for their good conduct.

“It was necessary to apply containment tactics to maintain public safety and deal effectively with those intent on disruption or non-compliance with relevant legislation, including powers under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994. As a result, some groups of supporters missed the game, but that was their choice.

“Our priority is, and always will be, the safety of fans in and around the stadium and the general public in the wider city.

“To support that, enforcement of Section 60 and other legislation was undertaken proportionately, with search powers being enacted in a targeted manner.

“Non-compliance with the Section 60 powers resulted in 90 people being reported to the procurator fiscal. Others have been arrested or reported for other offences, including the assault of a police officer.”

He added: “A significant number of pyrotechnics were seized or prevented from entering the stadium, which again demonstrates the disregard that some supporters have for the safety of others.

“We will continue to work with partners, including the clubs, to improve safety and order and to ensure that the sporting event is the real focus.”