Police chief promises further action after 'disgraceful scenes' at Unite the Clans rally

The chief constable of Police Scotland has promised further action following “disgraceful scenes” at a Unite the Clans rally in Glasgow.

Jo Farrell said action will be taken amid an increase in “spontaneous” protests across the country.

Violence erupted at Glasgow Green and around the city centre on Saturday as demonstrators and counter-protesters confronted each other and police.

According to officers, 1,700 people took part in the protests, with 15 people arrested for offences including assault, possession of offensive weapons, breach of the peace, obstruction and resisting arrest.

Police said groups engaged in violence, disorder, intimidation and hate-motivated offences, including a large group of around 100 people who made their way into the city centre.

The anti-immigration protest at Glasgow Green came after a number of smaller demonstrations around Scotland in recent weeks.

The chief constable discussed the events in Glasgow in her report to the Scottish Police Authority board, which will meet on Thursday.

She said: “Scotland continues to experience an increased level of planned and spontaneous protests, and while most are peaceful, policing has responded to instances of criminality, including disgraceful scenes in Glasgow at the weekend.

“I would take this opportunity to condemn violence, disorder and intimidation.

“Arrests have been made, a significant investigation has been established and we will take further action.”

She continued: “Extensive inquiries, led by the major investigation team, are under way into the disorder and officers will be reviewing CCTV, mobile phone and dashcam footage, and capturing statements to identify those responsible.”