Edinburgh mob attacks police with 'fireworks and bricks' as community locked down
An Edinburgh community has been 'locked down' by police with the force helicopter circling the area after violent scenes broke out.
A major police presence is responding to disorder in Niddrie's Hay Drive area as officers have been targeted with fireworks and bricks, according to a statement from Police Scotland.
Lothian Buses have also been damaged with projectiles and Niddrie Mains Road is closed from Greendykes Road to Duddingston Park South. It is understood ugly scenes broke out at around 9pm on October 31.
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A police helicopter has also been spotted circling the area in response to similar scenes which were witnessed in recent years as riot police came under attack from gangs of masked youths.
Police also asked locals to avoid the area until the matter is brought under control on Thursday night.
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A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: "We are responding to reports of disorder involving fireworks in the Hay Avenue area of Edinburgh. A number of people have targeted police vehicles and public transport providers with fireworks and missiles, including bricks.
"A road closure has been put in place at the junction of Niddrie Mains Road and Duddingston Park South, and the junction of Niddrie Mains Road and Greendykes Road.
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"Local officers are being supported by public order colleagues to bring the matter under control. Please avoid the area."
Niddrie is one of four Edinburgh areas brought under a new Firework Control Zone, making it a criminal offence for fireworks to be set off between November 1-10 unless licensed through the local authority.