Two charged after firework stash found in storage unit

Two men have been charged after a large quantity of fireworks were found at a warehouse in West Lothian earlier this month.

Police said the men, aged 18 and 25, were arrested after 200kg of fireworks were found in East Calder following an intelligence-led operation on October 15.

Det Insp Steven Dick, of Edinburgh CID, said he believed the fireworks were “intended to be used to cause disorder and violence in the coming weeks”.

Anti-social behavior and disruption of public order have wreaked havoc on Bonfire Night celebrations over the past few years, with senior authorities vowing to catch and prosecute anyone using fireworks to target emergency services and members of the public.

More than 60 police officers injured in 2023; many of them were attacked with fireworks and tear gas bombs.

The most serious disturbance occurred in Edinburgh’s Niddrie area, where 50 youths threw fireworks and tear gas canisters at riot police.

Earlier this week, police announced that public order officers would use body-worn cameras to collect evidence and identify suspects during any incidents.

Fireworks Control Zones will also be used in Glasgow and Edinburgh between 31 October and 9 November, making it illegal for members of the public to set off fireworks in certain areas.

The measures were first introduced in Edinburgh alone last year and will now cover nine sites in the capital and three in Glasgow.

“We know the significant impact the criminal use of fireworks has had on communities, vital services and emergency workers over the last few years and this will not be tolerated,” Det Insp Dick said.

He said officers would gather further intelligence to prevent disruption and “bring to justice those who intended to cause fear and injury during the Bonfire Night period”.