Police tackle 144 Halloween fireworks incidents across Scotland

On the night of Halloween, Police Scotland responded to 144 calls related to fireworks incidents, a decrease from the 160 received on the same date last year. Throughout Scotland, fireworks were reported to have been thrown at people, buildings, and vehicles. Despite these disturbances, officers noted that overall, there was “outstanding behaviour and co-operation” across the country. Efforts are ongoing to identify those responsible for the disorderly conduct.

To manage fireworks-related disturbances, Firework Control Zones (FCZs) were implemented in 14 locations within Edinburgh and four areas in Glasgow, effective until early November. Additionally, dispersal zones were established in several places to prevent anti-social behavior. Specifically, on Halloween night, fireworks were ignited publicly and directed at members of the public in Glasgow, Tranent (East Lothian), and Bonnyrigg (Midlothian). Police confirmed that none of their officers suffered injuries during these incidents, and investigations to identify the perpetrators are continuing.

Operation Moonbeam, an annual police initiative now in its ninth year, runs until the evening of 5 November. It enables police to deploy specially trained officers to tackle violence and disorder linked to fireworks. This year, the FCZs banning the use of pyrotechnics in designated areas lasted from 30 October to 8 November in Edinburgh and until 9 November in Glasgow. Seven dispersal orders were issued in Edinburgh, with ongoing efforts to determine the number implemented in Glasgow under Operation Moonbeam.

Chief Superintendent David Robertson expressed appreciation for the public’s cooperation, stating, “The overwhelming majority of Scotland’s communities have celebrated Halloween in the proper spirit and I’m really grateful for the support of our efforts tonight to deter criminality, respond to reports of disorder and protect the public and emergency services from harm.” He also condemned the incidents where fireworks were used as projectiles, emphasizing, “This type of behaviour is completely unacceptable and has to stop before there are serious consequences.” Police investigations have already begun, and officers involved with Operation Moonbeam will continue assisting local teams in dealing with fireworks-related offenses over the coming week

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