Paedophile removed from home and police attacked during 'violent' protest in Buckie

Flares and fireworks were thrown at police responding to a crowd gathering outside the home of a convicted paedophile in Moray.

Locals had been protesting outside Steven Wishart’s address in the Well Road area of Buckie since Sunday, calling for him to be removed.

Police are understood to have been guarding the property throughout.

A call was put out on social media for crowds to gather outside the property, which then descended into “violent disorder”.

Specialist officers in riot gear were called in to help after items were thrown and police vehicles were vandalised.

Steven Wishart removed from home in Buckie Jasper Image

Police have condemned the disorder, which resulted in items being thrown at police and cars being vandalised.

Chief inspector Mike McKenzie, local area commander for Moray, said: “On the evening of Tuesday, March 31, police responded to reports of a crowd gathered outside a property in Buckie.

“While in attendance, a number of items, including flares and fireworks, were thrown at officers, and police vehicles were vandalised. Specialist officers attended and provided assistance.

Crowds gathered outside the property on Tuesday Jasper Image

“This is the third such incident in the area since the weekend, but the first to descend into such violent disorder. This type of behaviour is utterly unacceptable, not only subjecting officers to horrendous levels of aggression, but seriously risking fire or damage to neighbouring properties.

“We can only be thankful that there were no serious injuries.”

A 45-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with the disorder and possession of an offensive weapon. He is expected to appear at Aberdeen Sheriff Court on Thursday.

The force has said it will continue reviewing footage from the scene to identify others involved.

“There will be a continued police presence and I want to reassure the local community that we are working closely with partners to address any concerns around this matter”, Chief inspector McKenzie added.