Gangs of feral youths took to the streets of Niddrie in Edinburgh on Bonfire Night aiming fireworks at residents, cars and an ambulance.
Police, fire crews and paramedics were met with havoc in Edinburgh on Saturday night as masked bikers sped through the streets aiming pyrotechnics at cars and people at close range.
Shocking footage emerged from the ongoing disturbance shows balaclava-clad thugs aiming fireworks at groups of people standing at the side of the road. Some of those on the street duck for cover as the rockets explode. Another video shows fireworks being set off in the street as cars brake to avoid the explosions.
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It also appears to show thugs aiming the fireworks at an ambulance which has stopped in the middle of the road.
A third video shows a make-shift bonfire alight in the middle of a road near a bus stop.
One police vehicle which was drafted to the scene was struck with a bottle containing a flammable substance, too, but officers have confirmed that no damage was sustained and no injuries were reported.
Members of the public were urged to avoid the Niddrie area, and locals are being warned to stay in their homes as first responders continue to deal with the disturbing event.
An Edinburgh Police Division spokesperson said: "Local officers working as part of #OpCrackle are being supported by specialist #OpMoonbeam resources following reports of various incidents including antisocial use of fireworks, a break-in to a shop and road blockages.
"A robust police presence will be in place to address the ongoing issues and keep the public safe. Residents within Niddrie are asked to remain indoors and not hinder the ongoing emergency service response."
Later they confirmed: "We can confirm that officers in Niddrie have successfully responded to the previously reported disorder incidents.
"The public are thanked for their co-operation."
Council Leader Cammy Day said: "The scenes the local community had to suffer and witness in Niddrie last night were disgraceful and disgusting. Police responded swiftly and we have been supporting them and our other emergency partners following the firework-related disorder and antisocial behaviour that took place last night.
"It's only a minority of people responsible for this inexcusable behaviour and I'm sure they will feel the full force of the law. It's extremely fortunate that no one was seriously injured as a result - attacks on the emergency services are despicable and reckless behaviour like this endangers lives.
"I would like to reassure residents we are working closely with Police Scotland to ensure the community are safe and appeal to anyone who can help identify those responsible to contact police so they can be dealt with appropriately by the justice system."
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