Police Scotland launches operation for Bonfire Night disorder

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 11:02 · Archive

Police Scotland is deploying extra resources to tackle firework-related crime during Halloween and Bonfire Night.

Police Scotland has launched Operation Moonbeam 2026 to deploy extra resources and specially trained officers during Halloween and Bonfire Night to tackle firework-related violence and disorder. Local policing divisions will be able to call on these specialist officers to respond to incidents.

The operation represents an improvement on recent years. Police Scotland recorded a 37% reduction in emergency calls relating to fireworks offences in 2025 compared with the previous year, with no officer injuries reported during that period. However, Chief Superintendent David Robertson, Gold Commander for the operation, said some areas still experienced 'unacceptable' criminality. He noted that emergency service workers continue to be targeted with fireworks, bricks and other projectiles as they carry out their duties.

Firework Control Zones and Dispersal Zones will be in place in some areas, giving officers power to break up groups whose behaviour is causing or likely to cause alarm or distress. Officers can also issue Dispersal Orders requiring individuals to leave an area or face further police action. Robertson stated that Operation Moonbeam resources would be 'ready to support local officers whenever required' and warned that those using violence and disorder would face prosecution using evidence including body-worn video and CCTV footage.

How it is being reported

• Scots cops vow Bonfire Night crackdown with 'extra resources' to tackle firework chaosChaos in previous years has moved cops to launch a dedicated operation to help keep communities safe this winter.Daily Record · 21 Oct, 10:48
• Police Scotland to ramp up patrols on Bonfire Night and Halloween to tackle disorderPOLICE Scotland will provided more resources and specially trained officers to tackle firework-related crimes in the run-up to Halloween and Bonfire Night ...The National · 21 Oct, 09:55

In this story: Police Scotland · David Robertson · Scotland

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