Police recover 200kg of fireworks from East Calder storage unit ahead of Bonfire Night

Police have seized 200kg of fireworks from a storage unit in East Calder, believed to be intended for use in Bonfire Night disorder.

Officers working as part of an investigation to tackle disorder ahead of the Bonfire Night period recovered the pyrotechnics on October 15.

Searches were then carried out at properties in West Granton Road, West Pilton Lea, West Pilton Street, West Pilton Place and Bughtlin Place.

Police say their investigations suggest that the fireworks were to be used for disorder and violence.

Two men, aged 18 and 25, have been arrested and charged in connection.

The 18-year-old was due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Friday, October 24, and the 25-year-old is scheduled to appear on Monday, October 27.

Detective inspector Steven Dick from Edinburgh Division CID said: “Our enquiries suggest the large quantity of fireworks seized was intended to be used for disorder and violence over the coming weeks.

“We know the significant impact the criminal use of fireworks has had on communities, vital services and emergency workers during the last few years, and this will not be tolerated.

“Officers will continue to gather intelligence and carry out enforcement and disruption action to prevent firework-related offences and bring to justice those who intend to cause fear and injury during the Bonfire Night period.”

Anyone who has information on planned criminal activity involving fireworks can contact Police Scotland via 101 or make an anonymous report to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.