FIREWORKS RIOT COPS SUE BOSSES

Officers caught up in Bonfire Night chaos claim they have been left with hearing loss

- RUTH SUTER

OFFICERS are preparing to sue Police Scotland after being left with hearing loss from firework and petrol bomb attacks on Bonfire Night.

Thirty-four of them have reported suffering from hearing issues since they were ambushed with flaming projectiles in the Niddrie area of Edinburgh last November 5.

A further eight cops were left injured during the ugly scenes, which saw a gang of around 100 masked youths terrorise a residential area during a three-hour rampage.

Video footage shows cops being targeted with rockets and other explosives as the area was gripped by “ turmoil. Cops clad in riot gear could be seen forming a line of defence as several rockets struck their shields.

Around 20 officers affected by the disorder are preparing to take legal action after Police Scotland failed to provide them with adequate ear protection despite having the equipment.