**Seven Arrested Amid Bonfire Night Disturbances as Firefighters and Police Targeted**
Seven individuals have been apprehended following chaotic scenes on Bonfire Night in Scotland, where emergency services faced violent attacks and a police van was set ablaze. Despite the disturbances, Police Scotland has reported a notable decrease in overall disorder throughout the evening, highlighting that many communities celebrated the occasion in a commendable spirit.
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Operation Amberlight was put into effect, deploying specialist police resources to assist local policing teams in managing Bonfire Night-related incidents, while also overseeing the Celtic vs. Besiktas Europa League match and a potential protest in Glasgow’s East End. This year’s operation concluded just before 1am, marking one of the most complex policing undertakings in recent years, comparable only to the challenges faced during President Trump’s visit to Scotland in September 2025.
During the night, a police officer and a paramedic were among those who sustained minor injuries when a firework was launched at them amidst the turmoil, culminating in the ignition of a police vehicle. In total, police received over 1,024 calls related to fireworks between October 31 and November 5—a rise from the 833 calls logged in 2025—yet a decrease was noted in incidents requiring a public order response.
In Edinburgh, at approximately 5pm, officers responded to a blockage on Oxgangs Road North, where a group had set fire to rubbish in the roadway. Fireworks were subsequently directed at police, prompting assistance from Operation Amberlight. Similar incidents were reported in the Gracemount and Gilmerton districts, with accounts of fireworks being thrown at both public and police vehicles in Clydebank.
Around 7.55pm in Glasgow, authorities responded to reports of a man injured in Greenside Street, where emergency crews faced further harassment with firework attacks, leading to significant damage to a police vehicle. One 16-year-old male was arrested amid these confrontations.
From 5.30pm to 11.30pm, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service logged over 800 calls regarding fireworks and bonfires. Fortunately, frontline fire crews reported no injuries or damage to their appliances. Police across Edinburgh and Glasgow issued a number of Dispersal Orders and reported no violations of Firework Control Zones.
Chief Superintendent David Robertson, Gold Commander for Operation Amberlight, stated, “While the vast majority of communities engaged with Bonfire Night responsibly, there is an unacceptable trend of violence towards emergency services that must end. Our officers, paramedics, and firefighters are tasked with protecting the public, not becoming targets for aggressive actions.”
Despite these interruptions, Robertson acknowledged the considerable support from the general public, attributing some successes in seizing fireworks before they could be misused to community cooperation. Investigations are currently underway to pursue legal action against those engaged in the evening’s disturbances, and anyone with further information is urged to step forward.
In conclusion, while the celebrations of Bonfire Night were marred by unfortunate violence in certain areas, it is heartening to note that many communities demonstrated a commitment to enjoying the festivities in a positive manner. It is imperative for both the public and authorities to collaborate in ensuring that future events can be enjoyed without fear of violence or disorder.