Northern Ireland

Police to investigate any potential Covid-19 breaches as Rangers fans gather in west Belfast

Rangers fans who gathered in west Belfast at the weekend to celebrate their team lifting the Scottish Premiership trophy were warned the PSNI were also in the area to "gather evidence" of any potential Covid-19 breaches. Picture by Pacemaker
Rangers fans who gathered in west Belfast at the weekend to celebrate their team lifting the Scottish Premiership trophy were warned the PSNI were also in the area to "gather evidence" of any potential Covid-19 breaches. Picture by Pacemaker Rangers fans who gathered in west Belfast at the weekend to celebrate their team lifting the Scottish Premiership trophy were warned the PSNI were also in the area to "gather evidence" of any potential Covid-19 breaches. Picture by Pacemaker

Police have described as "extremely disappointing" that Rangers fans breached covid guidelines while celebrating their team's league win at the weekend.

Large numbers of football fans converged on the Shankill Road on Saturday to celebrate Rangers receiving the trophy after winning the title for the 55th time.

The gathering came amid tight coronavirus restrictions which currently limit outdoor gatherings to 10 people from two households.

However, images from Saturday show large crowds of football fans gathered and sitting together at tables.

Similar scenes also took place in the area in March when Rangers clinched the title with matches to spare.

On Saturday, Translink said its services in the Shankill area had to be diverted due to the crowds.

Chief Inspector Darren Fox said yesterday: "Police attended a large gathering in the Shankill area on Saturday, May 15th and in order to engage, explain and encourage people to adhere to the Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations.

"It is extremely disappointing to see the numbers involved, which are clearly a breach of the Regulations, when we know so many other people are playing their part to keep people safe and adhere by the Regulations.

"An investigation is now under way, and action may be taken in relation to breaches of the Regulations."