CELTIC and Hearts fans have been threatened with police action if they bring booze, flares or weapons into Tynecastle Stadium this weekend.
The sellout SPFL Premiership fixture kicks off at 12.30pm on Saturday at the Edinburgh park and Police Scotland said its officers will not tolerate “disruption and disorder.”
WATCH: Shocking moment Tynecastle stewards ‘crush’ Celtic fans entering the stadium
Officers will have a high-visibility presence both inside and outside the ground to assist stewarding staff with searches and keeping spectators safe.
Anyone found to be in possession of any of the forbidden items will not be allowed entry and will face further action.
Chief Inspector Kevin McLean, match commander on the day, said: “We know matches like this create a special buzz around the city, particularly at the start of a new football season, and we will have appropriate resources in place to keep people safe before, during and after the match.
“The vast majority of football fans are a credit to themselves and their club but, unfortunately, on occasion, a small minority cause disruption and disorder and we want to make it clear that this will not be tolerated.
“For those travelling to Tynecastle, please arrive in plenty of time to allow for searches and getting through the turnstiles.
“We want everyone coming along to the match to enjoy the game and the atmosphere, but to behave in a manner which does not put anyone at risk of harm.
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“Anyone conducting themselves in a criminal or antisocial manner will be robustly dealt with.”
Just three months ago, the Evening Times reported on the shocking moment security stewards seemed to forcibly close the gates on desperate Celtic fans as they tried to enter Tynecastle.
The disturbing video was shot at the Edinburgh park before the Ladbrokes Scottish Premiership match between Hearts and Celtic.
Eric Alexander, managing director events at G4S Secure Solutions (UK) Limited, said: “Our security stewards’ focus is to ensure the public is kept safe and to help facilitate an enjoyable and safe day for everyone attending football matches.
“We continue to work closely with stadium authorities, Police Scotland and the Football Club Safety Officer.
The decision to close the gate for public safety was made via Police Scotland and thereafter G4S facilitated the operational aspects of spectator safety.”
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