POLICE dogs are to be employed to try to stop the smuggling of pyrotechnics into Parkhead for the final Old Firm match of the season that could seal Celtic a seventh successive title.
Celtic and Rangers fans have been warned against the use of pyrotechnics and flares as they face each other for the final time this season.
Police Scotland said in advance of Sunday's Premiership clash between the two Glasgow rivals at Celtic Park that officers had seen a trend for supporters bringing flares or pyrotechnics to matches.
Superintendent John McBride, match commander for the game, said: “These devices are extremely dangerous and endanger the safety of those around you as well as your own safety.
"Be aware that it is illegal to possess these devices without a lawful authority and it’s illegal to enter the stadium with them. We will take action, you will be arrested and specially trained dogs will be at the stadium to prevent people trying to smuggle them in."
A pyrotechnics display at Celtic Park last season provoked "serious concerns" from emergency services which posed a "risk to the renewal of a safety certificate necessary for the operation of the stadium".
Details of the concerns emerged in a letter to fans as Celtic decided to close the Green Brigade section of the stadium for two matches after "unsafe behaviour" at two competitive matches at Parkhead. Those were the last home game of the season against Hearts on May 27 and the Champions League qualifier win against Linfield last week.
Superintendent McBride warned that will also take firm action against anyone who becomes involved in disorder, sectarianism or acts of violence and warned against being drunk.
“It is well-documented that drinking to excess leads to increased levels of violence and disorder. So, I am urging supporters to behave responsibly and be cognisant that if you’re drunk you won’t be allowed entry and you’ll miss the match," he said.
“In the past we have conducted successful retrospective investigations. So if you’re not arrested on the day for your anti-social or disorderly behaviour don’t think you have escaped action. You could well have a football banning order imposed, preventing you attending football matches.
He added: “We are well aware of the significance of this match and there will be 60,000 supporters travelling from all over the country and beyond to Celtic Park. Our officers are extremely experienced in policing these games and facilitating the transit of thousands of supporters."
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