Policing operation in full swing ahead of Old Firm match

Loads of cops, including specialist mounted officers, have been pictured around Celtic Park in the East End. 

In images, officers can be seen guarding the area and interacting with fans from both clubs.

READ MORE: Rangers and Celtic stars pictured arriving at Old Firm clash

Pictures also show police being briefed ahead of the game inside the stadium. 

(Image: Andrew Milligan/PA) (Image: Andrew Milligan/PA) (Image: Andrew Milligan/PA) (Image: Andrew Milligan/PA) (Image: Andrew Milligan/PA) (Image: Andrew Milligan/PA) (Image: Andrew Milligan/PA) (Image: Andrew Milligan/PA) It comes after we reported how police have been given greater stop-and-search powers for the match.

From 8am to 11.59pm today (Sunday, March 16), officers will be authorised to use powers provided under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994.

The powers will be in place in various parts of the East and West Ends, as well as the Southside of the city.

The legislation permits greater stop-and-search powers of pedestrians or those in cars, as well as allowing officers to require the removal of face coverings hiding people’s identities.

The powers were most recently enacted in December before the two sides met at Hampden Park in the Premier Sports Cup final.