Police warning for football fans’ Glasgow protest

• Football fans are to protest against “disproportionate” measures to tackle sectarian singing and abuse at football matches

• Police warn that approved protest in Glasgow city centre must not be followed by “illegal” procession

The Fans Against Criminalisation group is concerned that legislation passed by MSPs more than a year ago created problems for ordinary supporters.

The Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications Act gives police and prosecutors new powers to tackle sectarian songs and abuse at and around football matches, as well as threats posted on the internet or through the mail.

The Act created two distinct offences, punishable through a range of penalties up to a maximum five years in prison and an unlimited fine.

The fans’ group, made up of Celtic supporters, complained it led to “heavy handed” policing.

Glasgow City Council approved a rally at George Square between noon and 1.30pm.

Police said they are concerned that large numbers of people may be leaving the city centre after the rally to head to Celtic Park to watch a game against Hibs, warning that any “procession” would be illegal.

Chief Superintendent Andy Bates, divisional commander of Greater Glasgow division, said: “The priority for me and my officers on Saturday will be to work with the organisers and others involved to facilitate the rally in George Square.

“We will be making sure those attending are kept safe and doing our best to minimise disruption in Glasgow city centre.

“I am slightly concerned about the dispersal at the end of the rally when a large number of people may want to leave the square at one time and make their way to Celtic Park to enjoy the game against Hibs.”

Fans will be directed to use three separate routes to ease the impact on the city centre, he said.

“Clearly, as permission for a public procession has not been granted, those attending the rally need to understand that any procession along the road from George Square would be illegal and anyone involved could find themselves subject to prosecution,” said Mr Bates