Police were forced to close a road in Edinburgh following a number of firework-related incidents last night.
At around 10pm, Police Scotland said a number of people had targeted its vehicles, as well as public transport vehicles, with fireworks and other projectiles, including bricks, in the Niddrie area of the capital.
One local described the scenes as "absolute chaos" and "like a war zone".
Police Scotland advised people to avoid the area as local officers and public order staff sought to bring the situation under control.
The force placed a road closure at the junction at Niddrie Mains Road and Duddingston Park South, and at the junction of Niddrie Mains Road and Greendykes Road.
Officers remain in the Hay Avenue area of Edinburgh following earlier reports of disorder.
— Police Scotland Edinburgh (@PSOSEdinburgh) October 31, 2024
Police vehicles and public transport providers were targeted with fireworks and missiles, including bricks.
All roads have now reopened. pic.twitter.com/fEapZWMbqB
Responding to the reports of violence and disorder last night, The City of Edinburgh Council's Leader Cammy Day said: "I’m shocked and saddened to hear of the mindless violence and disorder taking place in areas across the city tonight, especially during what should have been of night of fun and celebration.
"This is a time for families and young people to come together and enjoy Halloween in a safe environment, so it’s incomprehensible to me that anyone would choose to cause such disruption, fear and alarm in our communities – particularly with hooligans deliberately targeting buses and police vehicles.
I would appeal to anyone who can help identify those responsible to contact police as soon as possible so they can be dealt with appropriately through the justice system.
"I’d like to reassure residents that we will continue to work closely with Police Scotland, particularly in the run up to Bonfire Night, and will be meeting again first thing tomorrow morning to discuss next steps.
"I want to pay tribute to our dedicated emergency services for the fantastic job they do doing to keep us all safe – not only now, but all year round – and to our fantastic bus drivers, who keep the city moving. Nobody should face violence at work, and we will continue to do everything we can to ensure their safety."
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