Police officer injured by pyrotechnic during Glasgow republican parade

‘I am...disgusted at the recklessness...of those who decided to throw pyrotechnics,’ says assistant chief constable

Two republican marches were held in Glasgow on Saturday (PA)

A police officer has been hit by a pyrotechnic, thrown by a protester during a republican parade in Glasgow.

Around 400 people took part in two republican marches through the Scottish city on Saturday.

They were matched by hundreds of counter-protesters on the streets.

Hundreds of police officers were also present and 10 people were arrested for a “variety of offences”, according to Police Scotland.

The officer was injured when police were holding back protesters at King George V Bridge.

The Republican Prisoners Welfare Association parade was passing down nearby Clyde Street at the time.

The injured officer required immediate medical attention and was taken to hospital.

Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins said he was “disgusted” over the incident.

“A significant number of those who attended as part of the counter protests were intent on stopping the processions from taking place but were prevented from doing so by prompt and decisive police action,” he said.

“I am, however, disgusted at the recklessness and stupidity of those who decided to throw pyrotechnics, one of which injured an officer.

“He was simply carrying out a duty which allows us to facilitate people’s rights and ultimately we were here today to keep everybody safe.”

“I utterly condemn any acts of violence and would like to thank officers and staff whose dedication and professionalism helped us successfully deliver a first-class policing operation on what was a very challenging day.”

The parades took place a week after marchers and protesters clashed in the Govan area following an Irish Unity march.

Smoke bombs were thrown and riot police deployed in Govan following the event.

The first march on Saturday attracted around 100 participants and started at 2pm on Millroad Street, finishing on Clyde Street.

Around 300 people took part in the second event which started at 3pm at Blythswood Square and ended at Barrowlands Park in the Gallowgate.

The police officer was injured during the second march.

Additional reporting by agencies