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Three fans arrested for pyro before Edinburgh derby

SNS Hibs fans in the stands during their game vs Hearts. Green smoke, released by pyro and smoke devices, is going across the fans.SNS
Hibs fans set off pyro inside Tynecastle as their team defeated Hearts

Three men have been arrested for carrying or using pyrotechnics before the Edinburgh derby between Hearts and Hibs on Boxing Day.

Two men, aged 17 and 28, have been arrested and charged for possessing pyro in the city's Haymarket area before kick-off at Tynecastle stadium.

A 39-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with setting off pyro on Russell Road.

Police Scotland stated it was continuing to investigate four smoke devices that were set off within the stadium itself during the match, which Hibs won 2-1 with a late goal from Dwight Gayle.

A 45-year-old supporter from the home end was also ejected from the game and arrested in connection with alleged racial abuse towards Hibs player Jordan Obita.

Hibs released an online statement thanking Hearts for taking "swift action" to deal with the matter.

Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Gary Ritchie said fans setting off pyro around football matches was putting other supporters at risk.

He added: "I would ask people to think of the impact it could have on those around you, particularly people with medical conditions, young children and the elderly."

New laws came into force in June 2023 making it illegal to carry flares or fireworks into public places, while a number of Scottish clubs have had issues with supporters using pyro at matches.

Earlier in December Celtic, Rangers and Motherwell were all charged by the SPFL following "irresponsible" and "unacceptable" use of flares by fans during the Premier Sports Cup semi-finals at Hampden Park.