Glasgow riots: No arrests despite clashes between loyalist groups and police in George Square

The Loyalist Defence League staged a demonstration in George Square this afternoon as hundreds poured into Glasgow to "protect the cenotaph from harm".

It was the second day in-a-row the group has convened in the city. While Saturday's event was largely "peaceful", it's understood clashes broke out with rivals calling for the removal of a statue of Metropolitan Police founder Robert Peel. 

READ MORE: In pictures: Hundreds gather to 'protect' monuments

Dozens of officers rushed to the scene and a heavy police presence was spotted throughout the city centre. 

According to reports missiles could be seen flying between the two groups as police – with their batons drawn – formed a line across the street.

Police Scotland confirmed the group is not believed to be affiliated with the Black Lives Matter movement, which has been protesting across the country in recent weeks after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

Despite the clashes, Chief Superintendent Alan Murray said no arrests have been made and he also confirmed a number of football hooligan groups had been involved in the protests. 

READ MORE: Loyalist group stages second protest on George Square

He said: "A sizeable number of individuals identified as being from various groups gathered in George Square this morning with a stated intention of protecting statues.

"Throughout the day, police officers were required to intervene due to the presence of opposing groups to maintain order and public safety. Both factions included known football risk groups.

"There have been no arrests in connection with the event today. As is usual with events of this nature, a review will take place and should any criminality be identified appropriate action will be taken."

The protests were widely condemned by Glasgow's politicians this afternoon with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon calling them "shameful". 

During her daily briefing earlier today, the Glasgow Southside MSP admitted she did not yet have all the facts.

She said: "Right now people in my view should not be taking part in mass gatherings because it is not safe, it puts health at risk and potentially puts lives at risk."

She added that "violent protest is never acceptable", and said those involved "should really take a long, hard look at themselves".

She told reporters: "It is of course for the police to ensure that the law is respected and order is maintained and I have every confidence in Police Scotland to do this."

Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf tweeted: "Our Police Officers have been at the front line keeping us safe during pandemic.

"Today's scenes in Glasgow are shameful. Be in no doubt you will face the full force of the law if you assault a Police Officer.

"What a contrast to peaceful BLM [Black Lives Matter] protests in Scotlandlast week."