Police in Aberdeen and Dundee arrested 12 men yesterday in connection with violence and antisocial behaviour during a heated clash between Aberdeen and Dundee United last month.
The Dons won the December 13 game at Tannadice 2-0, but the day was marred by more than a dozen arrests.
Police were called to the Ambassador pub on Clepington Road in Dundee after fans were involved in scuffles. Mounted officers also had to deal with about 30 “casuals” who had descended on the Snug Bar near the stadium.
Yesterday about 50 officers across both cities, working with officials from the clubs, carried out further arrests in what police described as an “ongoing campaign”.
Eight were from the Aberdeen area, including addresses in Cove and Mastrick, and four from Dundee. Police said the Aberdeen arrests involved a 17 year-old, two men aged 18, one aged 20, two aged 21, a 25-year-old and a 48-year-old. They will appear in court at a later date.
The Dundee men are aged 17, 18, 19 and 41.Chief Inspector Murray Main of Aberdeen city division said: “Football-related violence has reduced over the years thanks in part to the excellent partnerships between police and football clubs. However there remains a small element intent on causing antisocial behaviour.”
Chief Superintendent Eddie Smith of Tayside division said: “One of the many benefits of Police Scotland is that operations such as these can be co-ordinated across neighbouring divisions in order that offenders who engage in disorder can be targeted quickly and effectively.”