Twice the number of trouble makers were arrested at last season’s Manchester derby than at any other ‘big’ games at Old Trafford, MM can reveal.
Information attained under the Freedom of Information Act showed that there were more than double the arrests when Manchester City played at Old Trafford than when Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool played there.
The information comes only a day before the first Manchester derby of the season at The Etihad tomorrow.
Speaking ahead of early season clash, Superintendent Stuart Ellison called for calm from supporters.
“We need fans to recognise this is an early season fixture, three points either way is not do or die for either team,” he said.
Thirteen arrests were made during the game between United and City on April 6, compared to just five arrests at each of the Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool games.
When asked about the arrests made last season, Superintendent Ellison said: “We made a handful of arrests on the day, but we made a lot more in the week after.”
He explained: “That is because of the CCTV footage and out our evidence gathering teams are trained to look out for and spot people who are intent on causing trouble.
“We are prepared for any challenges that may arise and will have officers ready to deal with any incidents of disorder on the day.”
However, Superintendent Ellison was keen to point out that it is a small minority of fans who cause the trouble.
“The majority of fans in recent derby matches have behaved impeccably,” he said. “They simply want to enjoy the game and I applaud their behaviour.”
The relationship the police have with both sets of supporters has been key in the staging of this fixture, Superintendent Ellison said.
The Manchester derby will take place for the first time on a Sunday afternoon and the Superintendent explained that these relationships were key in putting together a policing plan to address the later kick off time.
“We’ve agreed to this kick off time because we know GMP is well versed in policing this kind of event,” he said.
The recent addition of flares and smoke bombs have been an unwanted sight for many fans in recent years, and Superintendent Ellison issued a warning to those thinking about bringing such items into the ground.
“If anyone is trying to bring in flares or smoke bombs into the ground, we have specifically trained dogs outside turnstiles to detect these items,” he said.
“People bringing in a these items, would face a football banning order, and not be allowed to any F.A sporting match for the duration.”
He urged people to use their common sense, and think longer term, rather than focusing on the day.
Image courtesy of Sky Sports, with thanks.
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