The Rise of Drone Surveillance in Scottish Football
In recent years, the use of drones by police forces has become a significant tool in monitoring football matches across Scotland. This move is part of a broader strategy to address a growing concern over violence and disorder at sporting events. Police Scotland data reveals that the deployment of drones for crowd monitoring on match days has doubled in the past year, marking a clear shift in how authorities approach security at football games.
Several clubs, including Celtic, Rangers, Hearts, Hibs, Aberdeen, Dundee, Ayr, Kilmarnock, Airdrie, Motherwell, Raith Rovers, and Dunfermline, have experienced increased aerial surveillance. Additionally, supporters attending matches at Hampden Park have also been monitored from above. This heightened level of observation comes in response to a troubling incident last month when violent clashes erupted between Celtic and Rangers fans during a Scottish Cup quarter-final match.
The scenes of chaos included not only on-pitch confrontations but also skirmishes outside the stadium, resulting in 17 arrests. Much of the blame for this thuggish behavior has been attributed to organized fan groups known as ‘ultras.’ These groups, inspired by similar fan cultures in Europe, are known for their intense support, choreographed displays, and sometimes violent behavior. Their presence has led to an increase in incidents involving dangerous flares and pitched battles with rival fans.
Concerns from Fans and Advocates
Despite the necessity of these measures, the Scottish Football Supporters Association (SFSA) has raised concerns about the potential impact on innocent supporters. Paul Goodwin, a spokesperson for the SFSA, acknowledged that the rise of the ultra culture necessitates some level of precaution. However, he emphasized the need for balance.
“There’s an argument that with the rise of the ultras culture, police have to take these precautions,” Goodwin said. “But there has to be a balance. If it were to become a blanket thing, we would expect the police to be sitting down with fans and having a discussion around it.”
The SFSA has long opposed the use of technology such as live facial scanning at games, which they argue could turn public spaces into a police line-up. While Police Scotland has explored the use of facial recognition technology, the plans were ultimately dropped due to backlash over human rights and data protection concerns.
Goodwin added that policing by consent is essential, meaning that any new measures should be communicated to fans in advance. He stressed the importance of transparency and collaboration between authorities and supporters.
Drones and Helicopters in Action
Police Scotland uses drones to provide an aerial view for match commanders, enabling them to deal with incidents of criminality more effectively. In 2024, drones were used to monitor football events 29 times, compared to just 13 in 2023. The force’s helicopter was also utilized more frequently, with eight deployments in 2024 compared to two in the previous year.
The increased use of drones is part of a broader trend in Scottish football, where the formation of ultra groups has grown. Inspired by Italian fan cultures, these groups are known for their passionate support, elaborate tifos, and flags. However, their activities can also involve dangerous elements, such as the use of flares and physical confrontations with rival fans.
To combat this, some clubs have taken steps to ban face coverings, such as Forfar Athletic, which implemented the measure following disorder at a home match against Spartans. The club cited incidents both inside and outside the ground involving “young fans” as the reason for the decision.
Safety and Public Perception
The dangers posed by these groups were highlighted in February 2024 when a 10-year-old schoolboy suffered facial burns after being hit by a flare at a Dundee vs. St Johnstone match. Officers noted that if the flare had struck just millimetres closer to the boy’s face, he could have lost an eye.
Sickening scenes were also captured on video when a group of Airdrie casuals confronted St Johnstone fans in a bar before a Scottish Cup tie. The footage showed bottles being thrown into the bar, leading to a fight that spilled onto the street.
Superintendent David Howieson of Police Scotland emphasized that the primary focus of drone use is public safety. He stated that drones are a valuable resource for understanding crowd dynamics and making informed decisions on resource deployment. “This means we can improve public safety, reduce risk, and deliver a more effective service to our communities,” he said.
Howieson also mentioned that Police Scotland aims to expand the use of drones, but this will be done following public consultation. All drone operations adhere to the rules set out by the Civil Aviation Authority, and any footage retained for evidential purposes is managed according to existing policies.
