Police deploy firework control zones in Edinburgh and Glasgow

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 15:39 · Archive

Police Scotland is introducing firework control zones in Edinburgh and Glasgow from 30 October to tackle Halloween and Bonfire Night disorder.

Police Scotland is deploying firework control zones in Edinburgh and Glasgow from 30 October through early November as part of Operation Moonbeam, a police response to fireworks-related criminality now in its ninth year. Within the zones, it is a criminal offence to set off a firework or throw one across the boundary. The operation was launched in 2017 following significant fireworks-related incidents across the country, including serious assaults on officers.

Police have warned that those involved in disorder will face 'very real consequences' and will be brought to justice. Chief Superintendent David Robertson, gold commander for Operation Moonbeam, said: 'The criminal use of fireworks has very real consequences. My message to anyone who thinks violence and disorder are acceptable is clear; if you choose to put the public or emergency services at risk, we will use every resource available to identify you and bring you to justice.'

Disorder has fallen significantly in recent years after previous years saw mass violence. In 2023, more than 60 officers were injured across the country, including in Niddrie in Edinburgh where more than 50 youths targeted officers with petrol bombs and fireworks. However, serious disorder fell in 2024, when one Edinburgh officer was injured, and in 2025 no officer injuries were reported, with an almost 37 per cent reduction in emergency calls relating to fireworks offences compared with 2024. Following last year's campaign, 24 people have been charged with offences.

How it is being reported

• Offenders 'will face justice' warning as firework control zones returnAreas where the use of fireworks is prohibited will again be introduced in parts of Edinburgh and Glasgow.BBC Edinburgh East And Fife · 21 Oct, 15:17
• Edinburgh firework control zones named as police crack down on Bonfire Night disorderAreas across the city have been designated as control zones for bonfire night.Edinburgh Live · 21 Oct, 09:11

In this story: Police Scotland · Edinburgh · Glasgow · David Robertson · Niddrie

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