Police seek 19 people after Glasgow football chaos
Police have released images of 19 people they want to speak to about mass rioting ahead of the Scottish League Cup final in Glasgow.
Violence and rioting broke out in the city center ahead of Celtic’s game against Rangers at Hampden Park on Saturday, December 15.
Videos on social media showed large numbers of fans, some wearing Santa hats and face masks, charging at Argyle Street and setting off flares before kick-off.
Police urge anyone who recognizes the person pictured contact them.
People who witnessed disturbances in the city center are also asked to contact us.
Video taken that day showed that starting around 13:00, a large number of fans were escorted by police through the city center.
However, violence soon broke out as a group of people rushed down Argyll Street towards Trongate.
Shoppers could be seen screaming and running indoors to avoid the crowds.
Online video showed a fan falling to the ground while others ran around him. Soon after, flares went off near the store’s entrance.
An officer was later seen using his baton on some passing fans.
One shopper told BBC News they were forced to take shelter in a nearby store “for their own safety”.
CCTV footage from Gallagher’s pub on Howard Street shows a masked man being punched in the face as he tried to enter the Celtic supporter’s pub.
Moments later, a flare was thrown from the doorway and fans rushed down the street outside.
A Scottish police officer was injured when a missile was thrown during the riots, and a 26-year-old man was also taken to hospital after being seriously assaulted.
Police are authorized to use stop and search powers, including removing items used to conceal identities.
Action Pictures/ReutersFlares were later lit during the game.
Celtic won 5-4 on penalties and drew 3-3 with Rangers to claim the trophy.
First Minister John Swinney condemned the behavior of a “small number of fans” as “completely unacceptable”.
He added: “This is causing fear, distress and alarm for those enjoying their Christmas shopping before football matches.
“Clubs have a responsibility to ensure fans behave appropriately.”
