ONE person was arrested at last week’s All Under One Banner march for independence in Edinburgh, which 100,000 people attended.
The man, who was detained for a minor offence, has apologised to the Yes movement via AUOB and The National.
Though his identity is known to us, we are withholding it for legal reasons.
He wrote: “I’m the one that was arrested following a minor incident with a counter-protester on Saturday at the end of the march.
“I have no excuse or reasons for my actions other than seeing red. I realised quickly that the only harm I may have done was to the independence movement and AUOB, this was not my intentions. My sincerest apologies to all supporters.
“This wasn’t anything that was planned. I had simply seen the opportunity to take a flag.
“I didn’t hurt anyone nor was I screaming and shouting.
“I was quickly apprehended by Police Scotland who also deserve my apology for wasting their time. They were firm but extremely fair. I was released not long after the incident. I understand an apology does nothing but unfortunately it's all I can offer. So again I’m extremely sorry.”
AUOB’s head of stewarding Manny Singh said: “He had a moment of stupidity and allowed his emotions to take control.
“We have built a reputation of a family friendly peaceful movement. After three years, this is our first arrest. We will not win people over to Yes by abuse but with solid arguments for a better future.”
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Callum Baird, Editor of The National
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