Pictures by Lomond Radio
by Bill Heaney
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, gold commander for Operation Moonbeam, said: “First and foremost, I want to offer my thanks to the public across Scotland for their overwhelming support of our policing response and for working closely with us to make this a successful operation.
“While police were required to deploy into various areas and address certain incidents arising, there has been a notable and welcome reduction in both the number of serious disorder offences occurring, and the level of violence and hostility directed towards police officers, firefighters, and ambulance crews.
“There will be follow-up criminal inquiries undertaken in relation to some of the offences that took place, and I want to make it clear again that the criminal use of fireworks will not be tolerated.”
He said the police had been encouraged by the level of positive engagement they had had with local communities over the past few months which had helped shape policing plans as well as providing “vital intelligence” that had led to some significant fireworks recoveries.
“I am grateful to all of the partners and stakeholders who worked alongside us in the planning and delivery of Operation Moonbeam, and to each and every officer and member of staff whose dedication and professionalism have made this a successful policing operation,” he added.
Within the firework free zones, it is a criminal offence for a member of the public to set off a firework from 1 November to 10 November.
Police Scotland is enforcing the restrictions and anyone found breaching them can face up to six months in prison and a fine of up to £5,000.
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s head of prevention, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff, and all emergency responders across Scotland, for their tireless efforts during this busy and challenging period.
“The bonfire season is always our busiest period of the year and presents us with some unique challenges in terms of keeping our staff and communities safe.
“Thank you also to our communities for following our key safety guidance and for respecting our staff. Their support is invaluable in allowing us to be there for those who need our help the most.”
Meanwhile, as referred to above, police are appealing for information after reports of youths throwing fireworks in the Dalmuir area of Clydebank on Wednesday.
Between 7pm and 11pm, officers attended reports of youths throwing fireworks towards traffic and local shops in the Dumbarton Road area of Dalmuir. One man was injured as a result and was treated for minor injuries.
Detective Inspector Pamela Grant said: “Luckily no-one was seriously injured by this dangerous and reckless behaviour, however the consequences could have been much more serious.
“A car with a woman and two children inside had its window smashed after a firework was thrown at it. At around 10.40pm a man was struck by a firework by the youths responsible.
“Extensive enquiries are ongoing to trace those involved and I urge anyone who witnessed these incidents, or anyone with information on those responsible to contact us.
“If anyone has any personal or dash-cam footage, please contact us if it holds anything which could be relevant.”
”I would like to reassure the public that we treat this type of criminality and disorder very seriously and officers are working to identify those responsible as soon as possible. There will be increased patrols in the area to provide public reassurance and anyone with concerns should speak to officers.”
Information can be passed to Police Scotland through 101 quoting incident number 3571 of 5 November, 2025. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.
