Scuffles in Scotland After Vote Against Independence

 By 
Colin Daileda
 on 
Scuffles in Scotland After Vote Against Independence
Supporters of the Yes campaign in the Scottish independence referendum wave Scottish Saltire flags as people gather after the polls closed, in George Square, Glasgow, Scotland, on Sept. 18. Credit: Matt Dunham

There were scuffles in Scotland on Friday after crowds for and against independence gathered at the center of Glasgow, following Thursday's historic vote in which Scottish voters decided to remain a part of the United Kingdom.

Several hundred protesters were reportedly rallying in George Square during the day, waving flags and taunting the other side.

For a while, the situation was reportedly rather tense. But by the end of the day, authorities seemed to have the situation under control.

Police keep crowds apart at a stand-off in Glasgow's George Square after the #indyref No vote http://t.co/o247gEdXTp pic.twitter.com/scviwXVUGR— BBC Scotland News (@BBCScotlandNews) September 19, 2014

There were reports of flares and fisticuffs.

Flares go off & police separate crowds in Glasgow's George Square: live updates http://t.co/fKFrWDsRwF #indyref pic.twitter.com/dPVjeGj5uG— BBC News (UK) (@BBCNews) September 19, 2014

Many took to Twitter to denounce the violence.

Today whole world focussed on tiny nation of #Scotland, setting a remarkable example to all democratic nations. #Georgesquare is ruining it— Julia Macfarlane (@juliamacfarlane) September 19, 2014

Describing what's going on at George Square as a Yes/No thing is nonsense - it's a bunch of bigoted thugs taking advantage of a situation.— Kenny Stewart (@Kenny__Stewart) September 19, 2014

After officials tallied the result of the referendum, Scottish nationalist leader Alex Salmond resigned from his position as First Minister of Scotland.

The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!