Police have issued a warning against flares ahead of the weekend’s two Scottish Cup semi-finals in Glasgow.
Aberdeen take on Motherwell at Hampden Park tomorrow at 12.15pm before Rangers meet Celtic in the other semi-final on Sunday at 2.30pm.
Chief Superintendent Brian McInulty, the officer with overall responsibility for the policing operation for both semi-finals, said:
“These are showcase matches of what is best in Scottish football and we want it to be an enjoyable family occasion for everyone watching at the stadium or elsewhere.”
“We have seen a trend for people bring flares or pyrotechnics to matches.
“These devices can be very dangerous and can endanger your own as well as other’s safety. It is important for those attending to remember that to enter the stadium with any of these devices such as flares or smoke bombs is illegal.
“If you are found to be in possession of any of these types of prohibited items, you will be arrested.”
Chief Supt McNally added: “Those who plan to come to the games, intent on causing trouble and ruining the day, need to know they won’t get away with it. Don’t think you’ve escaped because you’re not arrested on the day because retrospective investigations will be conducted and trouble makers will be identified and arrested.
“This is something we’ve done numerous times in the past with great success.”
