POLICE officers were slightly injured and their vehicles damaged during a protest in Greenock. Today it was confirmed that a woman has been arrested and charged with a hate crime.
The demonstration happened on Wednesday evening beside the A8 near the Holiday Inn Express, which has been used to house asylum seekers.
It followed unrest elsewhere, including Glasgow, after the arrest of a man from Sudan in relation to a knife attack on Monday in Belfast.
Three officers sustained minor injuries after items were thrown at them and two police vehicles were damaged.
Two men were arrested and issued with Fixed Penalty Notices for anti-social behaviour offences.
On Thursday Police Scotland said a 32-year-old woman is due to appear at Greenock Sheriff Court on Friday, 12 June after she was arrested and charged with a hate crime.
Further enquiries are ongoing.
Chief Superintendent Rhona Fraser said: “Our priority is public safety and we had an appropriate policing plan in place for last night’s demonstration.
“We understand the concerns people have about their communities and will always balance the right to freedom of expression with the need to tackle crime without fear or favour.
“Officers were attacked and police vehicles were damaged. I strongly condemn that violence and there is no place for it in Scotland.
“Officers continue to be in local areas and are engaged with communities to show support and listen to concerns.”
