Police confirm three arrests and five hurt after Glasgow protests

Three men, aged 31, 18 and 18, have been arrested and charged in connection with various offences in Glasgow during the evening.

Police said two officers were injured and three members of the public were injured for 'the colour of their skin'.

Officers also dealt with “disruptive but peaceful” demonstrations in Edinburgh, Falkirk, Perth, Ayr and Paisley, where no arrests were made.

The protests followed a stabbing attack in Belfast on Monday night, which sparked further disorder and rioting across the city, with homes and vehicles set ablaze.

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell said: “Our priority is public safety and last night we had a conventional police response to demonstrations across the country.

“We understand the concerns people have about their communities and will always balance the right to freedom of expression with the need to tackle crime without fear or favour.

“Officers responded to disorder and violence, including incidents in Glasgow where members of the public were attacked because of the colour of their skin. Officers were also attacked.

“I would strongly condemn that offending and send a clear message that there is no place for racism and violence in Scotland.

“Officers continue to be in local areas and we are engaged with communities to show support and listen to concerns.

“We have an appropriate policing plan in place, including strong links across UK policing to ensure we are prepared to deal with any escalation in disorder, and we will mobilise specialist resources if necessary.

“As part of this, our officers will support National Police Coordination Centre mutual aid arrangements for colleagues at the Police Service of Northern Ireland, following careful consideration to our resourcing requirements to ensure there is no impact to policing in Scotland.”