Glasgow: Violence erupts in front of shoppers ahead of Old Firm Match | UK | News

Chaos erupted on the streets of Glasgow city centre ahead of the cup final match between Celtic and Rangers.

Supporters were filmed running down Argyll Street ahead of the Scottish League Cup final held at Hampden Park on Sunday (December 15).

People could be heard screaming as they looked on in shock at a wave of people running down the street, with one concerned woman urging others to “get in” a shop for safety. Christmas shoppers could be seen hiding in nearby stores as fans stormed past.

Hundreds of supporters descended on the city centre ahead of the final at the National Stadium, which kicked off at 3.30pm.

One video shows fans, many of whom were clad in black with blue scarves wrapped around their faces and with santa hats on, being escorted by police along Union Street.

An officer appears to lash out at rampaging supporters with a baton in a bid to quell the violence between rival fans, according to an unverified video posted on social media.

Police Scotland said “missiles” had been thrown at officers in Argyle Street and windows smashed in Howard Street.

A section 60 stop and search order has been imposed in the city centre, parts of the South Side, East End and South Lanarkshire until 9pm today.

Ch Supt Stevie Dolan said: “We have dealt with a number of incidents in Glasgow city centre today involving individuals engaging in disorder and violence across the city.

“Officers have had to act swiftly and robustly to ensure public safety and reduce disorder. The use of weapons or violence will not be tolerated and officers will take action where necessary to ensure safety.

“It impacts other members of the public and the vast majority of football supporters who want to enjoy the cup final event safely.”

The officer said police will remain in the city as the force’s operation continues and anyone with any concerns can approach them.

A flare was lit outside the entrance to one store where a member of staff was forced to lock customers and colleagues inside for their own safety, according to one report.

The Daily Record also reported that the fans escorted down Union Street were marched into Central Station before boarding a train for Mount Florida station near Hampden Park.