Delivery driver ‘afraid to work’ after protesters’ racist traffic-cone attack in Glasgow

A peaceful anti-racism protest had taken place on Glasgow Green on Saturday morning before counter protesters turned up at the scene.

Police said “disparate groups” engaged in acts of violence, disorder, intimidation and hate-motivated offences at various locations – all coinciding with the opening weekend of the Commonwealth Games.

The force said 1,700 people were in attendance and an operation was put in place to support public safety and minimise disruption.

Labour MP for Glasgow South West, Dr Zubir Ahmed praised the swift response from police and said he has requested an urgent meeting with Justice Secretary Neil Gray to discuss strengthening community safety.

He said: “How did we get here? How have we reached a point where people in one of the most diverse communities in Scotland now think twice about stepping outside?

“We’ve been sold a story about ourselves: that racism here in Scotland isn’t really as bad, and that communities don’t feel the strain when they change.

“The Scottish government has let a sense of moral superiority stand in for a genuine community safety and cohesion strategy.

“We fix nothing by fooling ourselves that we’re better than others.”

Gray condemned actions seen over the weekend and also praised police for their response.

He said: “Make no mistake, it is people intent on disorder and violence that are to blame for the unacceptable scenes in Glasgow over the weekend.

“It was totally unacceptable and we stand against such behaviour, as we do those seeking to intimidate and divide our communities.”

Gray said the Scottish government was investing £1.7bn for policing this year and that police had all the resources they needed to respond to the incident and other major events.

“I commend Police Scotland’s actions to maintain order and people will be brought to justice,” he added.