Police report 18 people for offences including 'racial breach of the peace' after Arbroath protest

Police have reported 18 people following disorder at a protest in Arbroath last month.

Officers attended the planned protest outside Arbroath train station on June 20, which escalated into an unauthorised procession and disorder at several locations in the town centre.

It came after posts on social media claimed that a rape which was reported in the town’s Bridge Street on June 6 involved illegal immigrants.

Police Scotland confirmed later confirmed that a 23-year-old white British man had been charged in connection.

Several roads were closed, and barriers were put up around Arbroath Train Station during the protest.

Footage on social media appeared to show protestors and police coming together in heated exchanges.

A 54-year-old man was arrested and charged on the day and is due to appear at Forfar Sheriff Court at a later date.

A 16-year-old male was charged and released, and a 59-year-old man was also issued with a Recorded Police Warning.

Detectives have carried out further investigations with 11 more people being charged in connection with various offences, including police assault, racial breach of the peace and vandalism.

A further four people will also be the subject of a report to the procurator fiscal.

The force has issued a warning against members of the public using events to “promote racism or violence”.

Detective inspector Innes Morrison said: “People have the right to express their views lawfully and to protest peacefully. Our role is to prioritise public safety and reduce any impact on residents, businesses and visitors.

“Anyone seeking to exploit such events to break the law, promote racism or violence, or disrupt people’s lives, should be in no doubt that Police Scotland will respond decisively and robustly.

“We understand that demonstrations can cause concern for communities, and we will continue to provide reassurance through closely monitoring the situation and engagement, as well as providing a high-visibility police presence at protests.”