Police warn would-be troublemakers ahead of anti-racism protest in Glasgow

Police Scotland has warned would-be troublemakers to stay away from a planned anti-racism protest in Glasgow on Saturday, saying a significant policing operation will be in place in the city centre.

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell said officers expect large numbers around Buchanan Steps on June 13 and will work to support public safety while limiting disruption.

Police said anyone trying to exploit recent events to break the law, promote racism or violence, or disrupt people’s lives should expect a robust response.

The demonstration is being organised by anti-racism campaigners, including Positive Action in Housing, and has been reported as a Stand Up to Racism Scotland event. It is scheduled for 1pm.

City-centre tension

The warning follows disorder in Glasgow earlier this week, when five people, including two police officers, were injured. Police said people had been targeted because of the colour of their skin.

The unrest came against the backdrop of wider disorder linked to Belfast, where unrest followed the stabbing of Stephen Ogilvie. That has helped fuel anti-racist demonstrations in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Police are now trying to separate lawful protest from any repeat of the street violence seen earlier in the week.

What police are watching

The main questions for Saturday are how large the turnout will be, whether counterprotests emerge and whether there are arrests or wider disruption in Glasgow city centre.

Police Scotland has not said whether it will issue another operational update before the event, but officers are expected to maintain a visible presence around the protest area.