In a recent social media announcement, Police Scotland informed Celtic and Motherwell fans of an overhead drone set to monitor the crowd before and after their match.
This drone, controlled remotely, is presented under the banner of fan safety, a modern approach to crowd monitoring. However, this development raises significant concerns about the broader treatment of Scottish football fans by authorities.
Scottish football fans have long felt the heavy hand of policing, often treated more like potential hooligans than passionate supporters. The introduction of drones for crowd surveillance is just the latest in a series of measures that many feel patronise rather than protect.
Over the years, the policing of Scottish football matches has been marked by an approach that many fans describe as over the top. From kettling tactics to the disproportionate use of stop and search, the measures employed often seem to assume the worst of the fanbase.
The balance between ensuring safety and respecting fans’ rights to support their teams without being treated like suspects is delicate.
While safety is paramount, the methods employed should not alienate or antagonise the very people they aim to protect. The use of drones by Police Scotland to monitor football matches is a clear sign that it’s time to review how authorities interact with supporters.
Instead of investing in gadgets that further distance the police from the community, efforts should focus on building trust and understanding.
Community policing, dialogue with fan groups, and collaborative safety planning are proven methods that can enhance matchday security without the impersonal touch of remote surveillance. These strategies not only ensure safety but also foster a positive atmosphere around football matches.
The use of drones at Scottish football matches is a symptom of a larger issue: the treatment of fans by authorities. While fan safety is a legitimate concern, the approach to ensuring it needs to be thoughtful and respectful.
