John Swinney condemns ‘unacceptable’ Scottish cup final violence

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Videos on social media captured the violence in the city centre.

Old Firm violence before Sunday’s Scottish League Cup final in Glasgow was “completely unacceptable”, the first minister has said.

John Swinney condemned the behaviour of a “minority of fans” who charged along Argyle Street in the city centre, setting off flares near Christmas shoppers.

A Police Scotland officer was injured after missiles were thrown. A 26-year-old man was also taken to hospital after being seriously assaulted.

Celtic beat Rangers following a penalty shootout at Hampden Park.

Swinney said: “The clubs have got to address the behaviour of a minority of their fans whose conduct was just completely and utterly unacceptable.

“It caused fear and distress and alarm to people who were enjoying Christmas shopping in advance of the football game.”

Videos posted on social media captured the violence in the city centre.

The disorder also saw windows smashed at a pub on Howard Street.

The first minister said police had the situation “entirely under control” but members of the public should not have had to witness the scenes.

He added: “The clubs have got a responsibility to make sure that their fans behave properly.

“The overwhelming majority of the football fans happily went to the match, watched the football and took part in the game.”

Swinney also criticised the “alarming” use of pyrotechnics during the match at Hampden Park, where two men were arrested.

A 41-year-old was charged with a drug offence and a 30-year-old man was found with a pyrotechnic in his possession.

No arrests have yet been made over the street disorder.

Police Scotland Ch Supt Stevie Dolan said: “Our inquiries are ongoing to identify those who were involved and we will take appropriate action against them.

“I urge anyone who has any information that could assist our investigation to contact us.

“I want to make it clear that the use of weapons and violence will not be tolerated and retrospective inquiries are being carried out.”

Videos shared online showed scared shoppers hiding inside shop doorways, while another showed windows being smashed in a pub full of Celtic supporters.

Ch Supt Dolan added: “We are following a number of lines of investigation, including reviewing CCTV and footage on social media.

“I would like to thank the majority of fans for their conduct throughout the day.”

The match went to extra time and penalties after finishing 3-3, with Celtic emerging victorious after winning the penalty shoot-out 5-4.

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