More than a dozen people have been arrested after violence erupted in Glasgow between anti-immigration and anti-racism protesters.
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Police chased and held back Unite the Clans demonstrators who ran towards an anti-fascist group, with many on both sides wearing masks.
Some 15 arrests have been made, including for possession of an offensive weapon, assault, breach of the peace, obstruction and resisting arrest.
Police Scotland said weapons recovered at the scene, which took place near a children’s play park, showed some arrived with the “intention for pre-meditated disorder, violence and intimidation”.
A significant policing operation remains in place with disorder reported across the city centre where hundreds gathered.
“Extensive enquiries are underway to identify other individuals involved and further arrests will be made,” the force added.
Protesters and counter-protesters clashed in Glasgow Green on Saturday afternoon as police on horses attempted to separate them. A video of the clash was reshared and supported by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon.
Punches and projectiles were thrown as the anti-immigration group approached anti-racism campaigners, while some performed what appeared to be Nazi salutes.
Helicopters circled the park, one of the city’s busiest, as police managed to separate the groups near Saltmarket in the city centre.
Those taking part in the Unite the Clans rally chanted “send them home” and held placards reading “stop the boats” as blue smoke billowed from flares that were set off in the Green.
There were big cheers during an anti-migrant speech in which a protester said “it’s wonderful being white” and “I love being white”.
One man was heard saying: “I’m a Nazi and I love it.”
A group of demonstrators march towards Glasgow city centre (Lesley Martin/PA)PA WireAnti-racism protesters, who outnumbered the anti-immigrant demonstrators, shouted “Nazi scum” at the group as well as chants of “there are more of us than you”.
Some anti-racism protesters shouted “scum” at police.
Arrests were also made as a large group made their way from Glasgow Green to the City Centre.
A number of containments were put in place, including in Oswald Street.
It is the latest in a series of protests around migration in Glasgow.
Tensions have flared in recent weeks, with police pinning much of the blame on misinformation online.
The anti-immigration protest was organised by Unite the Clans Scotland (Lesley Martin/PA)PA WireChief superintendent Emma Croft said: “We have seen significant disorder from disparate groups in Glasgow today at what should have been peaceful, lawful protests.
“Incidents of this nature can understandably cause a great deal of concern, and our officers took quick and decisive action to protect the public and bring the situation to conclusion.
“I want to be clear that the behaviour from many of these groups is not legitimate protest, it amounts to violence, intimidation and fear and will not be tolerated.
“Officers have recovered weapons that clearly indicate there has been an intention for pre-meditated disorder, violence, and intimidation. Enquiries will continue in this regard.
“This is completely unacceptable behaviour and those involved should be in no doubt that they will be identified and held to account for their actions.
“At a time when Glasgow should be shown at its best, it is extremely disappointing to once again be dealing with violence and disorder that attempts to create unease in our communities.”
“The protests and associated incidents have now concluded. We will continue to have a visible policing presence in the city centre and surrounding areas.”
Activists let off flares during the anti-immigration protest, organised by Unite the Clans Scotland, at Glasgow Green (Lesley Martin/PA)PA WireScottish Secretary Douglas Alexander said: “The scenes in Glasgow this afternoon are wholly unacceptable. For the second time in as many months, members of the public in the city centre have faced serious and concerning disorder by protestors who want to spread division and fear.
“Police Scotland should be commended for acting quickly to control the disruption and minimise any threats of aggression.
“As the eyes of the world fall on Glasgow with the Commonwealth Games and the city welcomes people from all over the globe, it is disappointing that people are choosing to spread division rather than celebrate community, friendship and compassion.”
Justice Secretary Neil Gray said: “The scenes in Glasgow today were totally unacceptable. This has been a deeply distressing day for members of the public in Glasgow. No area of any city should be an intimidating place to go.
“I would commend the efforts of the police to maintain order. The reports of missiles being thrown at police are appalling, no officer should face danger when they are doing their job of protecting our communities.
“Any form of hatred, prejudice, intolerance or violence on our streets is abhorrent – and perpetrators will be brought to justice.
“Scotland is a diverse, multicultural, inclusive and welcoming nation and those who choose to make their lives here are valued members of our communities. We must stand against racism, hatred and intimidation and those who would seek to divide our communities.”