A leading Scottish police official is urging for new powers to search football fans to curb rising violence and ensure safety at matches
Glasgow: A top police official is sounding the alarm about fan violence. David Kennedy, who leads the Scottish Police Federation, believes the only way to tackle this issue is by giving officers the power to stop and search football ultras.
This call comes after a shocking incident where a disabled Rangers fan was brutally attacked with a hammer. It’s a wake-up call for everyone involved in football.
Kennedy expressed his concern, saying it’s alarming that someone would go to a match with a hammer, fully intending to cause harm. He insists that using section 60 powers to search fans is crucial to prevent such violence.
He also mentioned that more police presence is needed at matches. With the rise in football-related violence, it feels like we’re seeing a return to the gang issues of the Eighties. It’s a serious problem that needs addressing.
He advised fans to travel in groups and to be cautious about showing team colors until they reach the stadium. The reality is, some fans are not there to enjoy the game; they’re there to stir up trouble.
In recent months, the behavior of some ultras has raised eyebrows. These groups, which started in Italy, have been known to lead chants and create an atmosphere at games. But now, there are signs that some members are getting involved in violent acts.
Take the case of Kurt Davidson from Stranraer. He was attacked while sitting in a McDonald’s before a match, suffering serious injuries. It’s a terrifying reminder of how quickly things can escalate.
Kurt described the scene as frightening, with a group of around 20 people dressed in black attacking him. He ended up in intensive care, and they even stole his money. It’s just unacceptable.
The violence isn’t just isolated. There have been clashes between Celtic and Rangers ultras, leading to condemnation from officials like First Minister John Swinney. The footage of fans rampaging through Glasgow was shocking and highlighted the urgent need for action.
