Police hunting for Celtic Park violence instigators

Police have launched an investigation after three officers were injured during a violent protest at Celtic Park last Sunday.

Chief Superintendent Mark Sutherland branded the protest “disgraceful” and promised further arrests after officers were targeted by fans furious at the club’s poor performance. Crowds gathered outside Celtic Park shortly after the team’s defeat to Ross County to demand the removal of Neil Lennon as manager.

Police were forced to deploy a helicopter and twelve vehicles against the crowd, who threw missiles at players and chanted, “Lennon, get to f***.”

Members of the media were also targeted, with one cameraman being told his face would be slashed if he continued filming. 

Nicola Sturgeon has condemned the protest as “despicable” and warned that violence against the police would not be tolerated.

Celtic also promised an investigation into the incident, calling it “unacceptable” and saying their players “had been left shaken” after having to be escorted from the grounds. 

Celtic fans instigated a series of violent acts outside Celtic Park after another team loss

The violence came after growing frustration at Celtic’s recent performance as they have lost eight of their last ten matches.

In their statement, Celtic acknowledged the “huge disappointment” of the fans but warned “there can be no excuse for some of the violent scenes at Celtic Park this evening.”

Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf also condemned the violence: “Officers have been front and centre keeping us safe during this pandemic. To treat them this way at any time is shameful.”

Glasgow is currently a tier 4 area with gatherings of more than six people banned.