Police return Rangers fans 'rebel scum' banner to supporters group

Police have returned a banner unfurled by Rangers fans before an Old Firm game with the words “take aim against the rebel scum”.

The display was revealed in the Copland Stand at Ibrox on Sunday, May 4, depicting former player and manager Graeme Souness holding a double-barrelled shotgun.

First Minister John Swinney condemned the banner, saying football clubs should deal with such incidents after Police Scotland launched an enquiry into the display.

On Friday, officers confirmed no criminality had been established surrounding the banner.

It is understood the display has been handed back to the supporters group who unfurled it.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Following enquiries into the banner, no criminality was established.”

The picture of Souness is from a Getty Images photoshoot before the World Cup match between Scotland and New Zealand in 1982.

The display was opposite the section holding 2,100 travelling Celtic fans in what was only the second Old Firm match in recent years to have an away support.

Police also launched enquiries after a glass bottle was thrown into Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo’s penalty area in the second half of the 1-1 draw last month.

Following the incidents, Rangers released a statement condemning the bottle-throwing and made clear the club did not approve of the banner.

The club said last month: “Rangers Football Club condemns the actions of the individual who threw a bottle during today’s match. This behaviour has no place at our stadium.

“Steps have already been taken to identify the person responsible, and the club will take the strongest possible action once their identity is confirmed.

“We also acknowledge that the tifo (visual display by fans) displayed prior to kick-off crossed a line and was unacceptable. Our approach to supporter displays has always been built on trust, with the responsibility placed on groups to exercise good judgment.

“We will reflect on how these displays are managed and engage with supporter groups to ensure the right balance of trust, responsibility and oversight is maintained moving forward.”