Riot police will be on stand-by across Renfrewshire this bonfire night in a bid to avoid the anarchic scenes which erupted on Scotland’s streets last year. Specially-trained public order officers will be deployed across the country as part of Operation Moonbeam in a bid to protect local police from attack.
Since Operation Moonbeam was first launched in 2018, the number of criminal incidents involving fireworks has decreased. However, last year, officers responding to reports of disorder and anti-social behaviour in certain parts of the country were subjected to unprecedented levels of aggression and violence. In total, 62 officers sustained a range of injuries after being struck by, or in proximity of, a firework that was thrown towards them.
Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) are working together to provide education to schools across Renfrewshire on fire safety and criminal behaviour.
Renfrewshire’s prevention and intervention officers also carried out joint visits with partners from Trading Standards ensuring that firework sellers are adhering to regulations.
Sergeant David Cameron, of the division’s preventions and interventions team, told the Paisley Daily Express: “We hope the community keep themselves safe if using fireworks. We would also ask the community to report any large objects that could form part of a bonfire and Renfrewshire Council will request for them to be removed.”
Operation Moonbeam 2024 was launched in a joint event at Glasgow Green alongside Crimestoppers and the SFRS who both launched their own initiatives aimed at deterring the criminal and reckless use of fireworks.
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, Gold Commander for Operation Moonbeam, said: “What we saw last year was an unacceptable level of hostility and violence, which was primarily directed at police officers and, for the most, was instigated by adults linked to organised crime, who provided young people with fireworks and other weapons and encouraged them to attack officers.”
Mairs added, “I want to make it clear that those responsible for endangering the lives of police officers, other emergency service workers, or members of the public will be identified, and they will be brought to justice.”
In summary, the police in Renfrewshire are gearing up for Bonfire Night with the support of riot police as part of Operation Moonbeam to prevent the violence and aggression seen last year. Officers are working with the community and other agencies to ensure safety and compliance with firework regulations. The public is urged to report any criminal activity or unauthorized bonfires to ensure a safe and enjoyable evening for all.