Council leader 'angry and disappointed' by Bonfire Night disorder across Edinburgh

The leader of Edinburgh City Council has condemned disorder that took place across the city on Bonfire Night.

While Jane Meagher thanked emergency services and partner agencies for their efforts in keeping the public safe, she was disappointed by the disorder, describing it as “mindless behaviour”.

Police Scotland brought in additional officers from England to assist in policing in both Glasgow and Edinburgh on November 5

Fire crews attended more than 767 incidents on Bonfire Night across Scotland, including 335 bonfires.

One of the most notable incidents on Thursday occurred on Oxgangs Road North around 5pm, when a group created a blockade and set it alight.

Police in attendance were then targeted with fireworks. The group then made off from the area.

There were also incidents of police and public vehicles being targeted with fireworks in the Gracemount and Gilmerton areas of the city.

In addition, 21 dispersal orders were issued across the city, on what Meagher said was a “broadly peaceful evening”.

She said: “While it’s encouraging to see that Bonfire Night was broadly a peaceful evening across the city, I was angry and disappointed to see isolated incidents of disorder, with a small minority seemingly intent on causing fear and alarm in our communities.

“We cannot and must not accept this type of mindless behaviour, in particular the targeting of our emergency services, and I hope those responsible are caught and brought to justice as soon as possible.”

She praised partners involved in making Bonfire Night as safe as possible, explaining that months of planning and preparations had been carried out in the run-up.

“Our approach has focused on prevention as well as enforcement, from Firework Control Zones to engaging with young people and providing positive alternative activities,” she added.