Seven arrests in police crackdown on Glasgow city centre disorder

Police have arrested seven people in 12 hours as part of a crackdown on violence, disorder and anti-social behaviour in Glasgow city centre.

Four men and three women were involved in alleged assaults, weapons offences, and breach of the peace between 14:20 on Tuesday and 02:20 on Wednesday.

The force said it was committed to ensuring the city centre was a "safe and welcoming place for everyone".

Last month a BBC Disclosure documentary exposed crime and antisocial behaviour in the city centre, with social media posts claiming that the area had become a "no-go zone".

Earlier this year, Police Scotland introduced a dispersal zone covering areas of concern in the city centre, including Glasgow Central Station, St Enoch Square and Union Street.

It allows officers to issue a 24-hour ban on groups of two or more people in the area if their behaviour is "impacting on the safety and well-being" of others.

During the recent police action, two men, aged 34 and 37, were arrested and charged over an assault and possession of an offensive weapon.

A 40-year-old woman was also arrested and charged in connection with assault with intent to rob.

A 41-year-old man and a 49-year-old woman were arrested and charged in connection with possession of a knife.

Police also arrested and charged a man, aged 32, over possession of offensive weapons, and a 20-year-old man was arrested over a breach of the peace and resisting arrest.

Local area commander Ch Insp Stephen McManus said: "These arrests send a clear message that violence, disorder and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in Glasgow city centre.

"This criminality can cause real harm and unease for local residents, businesses and those visiting our city and we remain committed to providing a visible police presence."