PSNI to investigate Shankill celebrations

By Q Radio News

An investigation is underway after large crowds gathered in the Shankill area of Belfast at the weekend to celebrate Rangers winning the Scottish premiership. 

The PSNI says it was disappointing to see the numbers involved which were clearly a breach of coronavirus regulations. 

Under the current rules, 10 people from two households can meet outdoors.

An investigation is underway after large crowds gathered in the Shankill area of Belfast at the weekend to celebrate Rangers winning the Scottish premiership. https://t.co/Zp01miBjKR

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) May 17, 2021

Police say action may be taken in relation to breaches. 

Ch Insp Darren Fox said police arrived on the scene in west Belfast to "explain and encourage" people to stick to the current pandemic rules.

He said: “It is extremely disappointing to see the numbers involved, which are clearly a breach of the regulations when we know so many other people are playing their part to keep people safe and adhere to the regulations.”

Meanwhile, in Rangers’ home city of Glasgow, three police officers were injured and 20 people arrested as crowds gathered to celebrate the win in the city centre.

Police Scotland said "many more arrests will follow" after what it described as "disgraceful scenes".

(The PSNI said the celebrations on the Shankhill were in breach of Covid-19 rules)