Covert Police to Patrol Glasgow Buses Amid Rising Arson Incidents
In response to a surge in arson attacks and anti-social conduct on buses traveling through the Pollok area, Police Scotland is increasing patrols on First Bus services. Undercover officers will join First Bus routes in Glasgow to help curb the growing issue of unruly behavior.
First Bus Glasgow has warned that it may be forced to discontinue several evening services that operate through the Pollok area if the arson attacks persist. Passengers and drivers have been put at risk due to these incidents. The affected routes include the 3, 10, 57, and X8, which all pass through Pollok.
The decision follows numerous cases of deliberate fires being set on buses in the area, with one incident resulting in significant damage to a bus when a group of young individuals ignited a fire on the upper deck before disembarking.
Police Scotland has confirmed that, as a result of these criminal activities, undercover officers will be deployed on buses traveling through that part of Glasgow.
First Glasgow took to Twitter to express concern over the growing number of arson attacks and called for a joint response from community leaders to address the escalating criminal and anti-social behavior.
Users on social media reacted to the situation, with one remarking that it was “incredible” for an area in Glasgow to become a “no-go” zone for public transportation in the evenings. Some called on government officials, including the MSP for the Pollok area, Humza Yousaf, to take action.
Additionally, teenagers have been reported causing disturbances at a local McDonald’s in Silverburn, subjecting staff and patrons to racial slurs and physical assaults. Consequently, the fast-food establishment has decided to deny entry to unaccompanied individuals under 16 after 6 pm.
In an effort to reassure the community and identify those responsible for the anti-social behavior on the bus network, Pollok Community Officers, First Glasgow, and McGill’s West have launched a joint initiative. Officers will patrol the buses in both uniform and plain clothes.
