Police Scotland have had a surge in officers testing positive and having to self-isolate following the Covidiot invasion of George Square two weeks ago.
Crowds of law-breakers gathered outside of Ibrox but rather than issue Fixed Penalties they were escorted to George Square with the images on Social Media attracting more fans to the city centre.
It appears that a softly-softly approach was taken over the weekend with Police Horses given time off rather than be on duty at the very centre of the city where thousands of pounds worth of damage was done.
While the authorities have been vague about the impact of the George Square Covidiots the Daily Record has come up with some numbers:
The Record has learned more than 30 police officers have had to self-isolate after some of them tested positive after working among the crowds at Ibrox and George Square two weeks ago.
With fears of similar scenes tomorrow, it was speculated that the third derby meeting of the season could be postponed by the authorities.
But Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf yesterday confirmed that the match will be allowed to go ahead as scheduled, with a significant police presence to maintain order.
A number of officers who worked at the March 7 gatherings caught the virus and later came into contact with other officers – forcing them all to self-isolate.
David Hamilton, chair of the Scottish Police Federation, said: “A number of officers who policed the Rangers celebrations have since tested positive and, as a consequence, many more have had to self-isolate. I hope those fans who attended will reflect on whether flouting the health regulations was really worth it.”
The Record understands 36 officers had to self-isolate due to the outbreaks.
A police source said: “Officers are not invincible to Covid-19 and this highlights the risks police are taking daily. We have officers who are very poorly and have suffered long-term health problems from contracting the virus.
“Many of those at George Square were not following social distancing guidelines or wearing masks and in some situations it’s also difficult for police to maintain their distance from the public.”
No action has been taken against the Ibrox club despite Steven Gerrard and others screaming out the Dressing Room window then boozing for the gallery and car sharing outside Murray Park the following day.
