Shoppers cower in the doorway as Rangers and Celtic ultras battle with police.
Santa hat-wearing Rangers ultras were seen fighting with police and Celtic fans wearing balaclavas as they ran down a popular Glasgow street.
Shop employees were compelled to lock the front doors of their establishments, while astonished bystanders were forced to seek cover in doorways as a result of the startling scenes, which were reportedly shot on Argyll Street on the morning of the Scottish League Cup final at Hampden Park.
A worried-sounding woman is heard calling on customers to enter, saying: “Oh my god. Get in!” as the women screamed in amazement at the chaos that was playing out in front of them.
An internet video of the incident shows police battling to control the crowds, which seem to include the Union Bears, The Green Brigade, and a group of consumers who were enmeshed in the unsettling scenario.
The cops tried to use batons to calm the chaos when a fan lighted a flare. Fans can hear a policeman constantly telling them to “Get back!”
As conflicts persisted, many, however, decided to disregard the directives.
Rangers and Celtic will square off in today’s Scottish League Cup final at Hampden Park at 3:30 p.m.
We have dealt with several incidents in Glasgow city center today with people committing acts of violence and disturbance throughout the city, Chief Superintendent Stevie Dolan stated.
“In order to maintain public safety and lessen chaos, officers have had to respond quickly and forcefully. Officers shall take appropriate action to preserve safety and will not tolerate the use of firearms or violence.
It affects the great majority of football fans who wish to watch the cup final event in safety as well as other members of the public. As our operation progresses, officers will be in the city, and anyone with concerns is welcome to speak with them.”