The police have confirmed that they will deploy a sniffer dog at this evening’s League Cup clash between Hearts and Celtic at Tynecastle.
The Gorgie club condemned the behaviour of a section of their own fans following the weekend’s victory over Ross County after a pyrotechnic device, which caused a deafening bang, was used in the second half.
Hearts also heavily criticised a small group that attacked a Ross County supporters’ coach after the match.
A message from the Edinburgh Police Division’s Facebook page reads:
HEARTS v CELTIC MATCH
Kick-off is at 7.45pm and we ask that you just take a bit of time to plan your journey and arrive at the stadium in plenty of time.
There will be plenty of cops in and around Tynecastle, keeping folk safe and deterring the crims from partaking in any unsavoury activities.
Recently across the country there’s been an increase in the number of numpties, sorry spectators, bringing flares and other pyrotechnics into stadiums. Just DON’T. No such ‘hand luggage’ will be tolerated.
A specialist K-9 colleague will also be on the sniff for flares and fireworks and anyone found with these will not be allowed in to the grounds (at best) but may also face further police action. She’s primed and looking forward to tonight’s shift!
Chief Inspector Bob Paris, Match Commander for tonight’s game said: “We will have a number of resources deployed during the match to assist stewarding staff and ensure the safety of both sets of fans.
“Please remember that alcohol will not be permitted inside the stadium and we will work with stewards to carry out searches of those entering the ground.
“As part of these searches we will also be on the lookout for anyone in possession of fireworks of flares following a number of recent incidents at Scottish football matches.
“This behaviour is dangerous and can cause serious injury and panic in a crowded environment. The Football clubs don’t want it and don’t want their reputation tarnished by a few foolish individuals calling themselves supporters.
“If you are found in possession of any illegal or illicit materials you will be arrested and reported to the Procurator Fiscal.”
