Man arrested over 'hate crime' at George Square protests as police confirm two arrests in Glasgow

A heavy police presence at George Square as protest and counter protest get underway.
-Credit: (Image: Daily Record)


Police have made two arrests following an anti-immigration demonstration and anti-racism counter protest at George Square.

A 40-year-old man has been arrested for an alleged hate crime, and a 20-year-old arrested for ‘carrying an offensive weapon’, Police Scotland confirmed following events this afternoon (Saturday, September 7).

Thousands descended on the city centre from noon, some attending a ‘pro-UK’ rally previously backed by extremist Tommy Robinson, others backing Stand Up To Racism with a counter protest, following recent far-right violence in England.

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As reported on Glasgow Live, a small group were kettled as officers on horseback and a large police presence separated the two groups in the busy square.

Video footage of a group dressed in black clashing with police in nearby High Street, outside McChuills pub, has also been shared online.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said officers are in attendance in the city centre to disperse groups.

They added: “A proportionate policing plan was in place for a planned protest in George Square, Glasgow, today.

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"A 40-year-old man was arrested for a hate crime and a 20-year-old man was arrested for carrying an offensive weapon. Enquiries remain ongoing.

“Officers contained a small group of people to engage with them, maintain public safety and minimise disruption.

“Containment is an approved tactic used by highly trained officers where a breach of the peace is taking place or is reasonably thought to be imminent.”

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