Two boys, 15, arrested for ‘making petrol bombs’ and firing fireworks at police in Edinburgh

Police Scotland have made eight more arrests after a chaotic Bonfire Night face-off – including two teenagers who are suspected of making petrol bombs.

Two 15-year-old boys have been charged with preparing petrol bombs and throwing fireworks at police in Edinburgh.

Six others, aged between 14 and 16, have been arrested in connection with possession of fireworks and associated disorder in Southhouse and Gracemount.

On 5 November in Niddrie, riot police officers were targeted by a group of around 100 youths.

Videos from the scene show fireworks being shot towards police positions.

While some officers only suffered mild injuries, Police Scotland condemned the psychological impact of the “unacceptable” violence.

The latest arrests mean a total of 17 suspects have been taken into custody by police over the disorder on Bonfire Night.

The youngest suspect was aged 13, and the oldest was a man 31.

A spokesman for Police Scotland said: “Work remains ongoing to establish the identities of others involved and a number of others have been identified.

“Officers continue to appeal to the public to provide any information that can help with ongoing inquiries.”

Chief Inspector Kieran Dougal said: “The disorder seen in the capital on Bonfire Night was completely unacceptable and these charges show our continued commitment to identifying and tracing those involved in the incidents.

“Our investigation continues and I would urge the public to continue to help us with that by reporting any information to 101, or send it to the portal link. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.”

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First Minister Humza Yousaf said on X (Twitter) following the incident: “Disgraceful scenes of fireworks misuse across some areas of Scotland last night, particularly in Niddrie.

“I pay tribute to Scotland Fire and Rescue and Police Scotland officers who should not be targeted & attacked for doing their job. Those responsible should feel the full force of the law.”

Scotland’s justice secretary has said she is “open to discussion” on a ban on the sale of fireworks to the public.

Speaking to BBC Radio Scotland, Angela Constance said Scotland did not currently hold the powers to do so, but added: “I’m open-minded about it, open to discussion.”