Lakhvir Singh, 34, from India, was held in the back of an immigration enforcement van in Kenmure Street, Pollockshields, with another man for several hours, while protesters blocked its path – with one lying underneath the vehicle.
Police Scotland officers were called to form a ring around the van, as the demonstrators’ ranks swelled to over 200, with chants of “Leave our neighbours, let them go” and “Cops go home” being sung.
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Hide AdThe attempted deportation was widely condemned on social media, with political leaders, including the First Minister, calling on the Home Office to abandon it.
Shortly after 5pm, Police Scotland appeared to bow to public pressure, issuing a statement confirming that it had ordered the release of both men.
A Police Scotland statement said Superintendent Mark Sutherland had decided to release the detained men “in order to protect the safety, public health and wellbeing of those involved in the detention and subsequent protest”.
Speaking via a translator after he was freed from the van, Mr Singh said: “I’ve been astonished and overwhelmed by the support I’ve received from the people of Glasgow.
“At around 9.30am immigration enforcement carried out a raid and we were taken to security in the van.
“There were only five or six people at the time but word spread and then there were crowds of hundreds.
He added: “We are so grateful for the support.”