Islamabad, Mar 17 2025: Security measures at the Old Firm match between Celtic and Rangers saw 90 supporters turned away after they refused to comply with police searches.
Authorities had been granted special powers under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, allowing officers to stop and search individuals suspected of carrying prohibited items or concealing their identity.
Police Scotland stated that most of the fans who declined searches had covered their faces. They will now be reported to the procurator fiscal.
Meanwhile, officers made one arrest outside Celtic Park, detaining a 20-year-old on suspicion of assaulting a police officer.
The suspect was later released on an undertaking and will appear in court at a later date. Additionally, a 46-year-old man was found with a pyrotechnic and will also be reported to legal authorities.
During the matchday operation, police confirmed that while a contained group of supporters was being monitored, pyrotechnics were set off, leading to a fire. Although the incident posed a risk to public safety, no injuries were reported.
Chief Superintendent Stevie Dolan, who oversaw the policing strategy, thanked the majority of fans for their cooperation.
He explained that security searches were conducted appropriately and were necessary to prevent disruption and ensure public safety.
He added that some supporters missed the game as a consequence of their refusal to comply with security measures.
The temporary Section 60 powers allowed officers to search individuals on foot and in vehicles, remove items used to hide identities, and intervene where they suspected criminal intent.
Similar measures were implemented at the recent Edinburgh derby between Hibernian and Hearts.
The Old Firm clash marked the first match since 2023 to allow away fans following a ticket dispute. Around 2,500 Rangers supporters, who entered the stadium two hours before kick-off, saw their team secure a 3-2 victory. Despite the win, Rangers remain 13 points behind league leaders Celtic.
