POLICE SCOTLAND – William Hill Scottish Cup – Stranraer FC vs Celtic
Following the William Hill Scottish Cup fourth round tie involving Stranraer Football Club and Celtic Football Club at Stair Park, Stranraer, on Sunday 10 January 2016, Police Scotland is conducting a post-match investigation into complaints of anti-social behaviour and sectarian singing.
Prior to and during the match a total of four supporters were arrested for a number of football related and public order offences. Two were arrested in the ground and two were arrested out with the ground. The four persons arrested were all men aged 44, 25 and two aged 23.
The post-match investigation will focus on the use of pyrotechnic devices, smoke bombs and fire crackers which were set off within the terraces as well as being thrown onto the field of play. Police will also be investigating outbreaks of sectarian singing and chanting which is reported to have taken place.
Superintendent Steven Lowther, Match Commander, said today:
“The behaviour of a minority on the day was unacceptable. What was supposed to be an enjoyable event for all was tarnished by a group of individuals who were intent on singing sectarian songs as well as letting off smoke bombs and pyrotechnics within the crowd.
“It is evident that those involved had no concerns for either the safety of others or how their behaviour spoiled what should otherwise have been an event where the post-match discussion should have centred on football and not their antics.
“We will work with partners and both clubs to try and identify those involved to ensure positive action is taken to address the scenes which were witnessed at Stair Park.”
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