Rishi Sunak condemns 'concerning' violence as six arrested after Wolves v West Brom FA Cup clash
Six people have been arrested after violence broke out at the West Brom v Wolves FA Cup clash at The Hawthorns.
The disorder started in the 78th minute after Wolves went 2-0 up, with police officers rushing to control the crowd.
The match was suspended for around 35 minutes and a man was seen being led away with blood covering his face. Police say he's since been taken to hospital with head injuries.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has condemned the violence and called for the hooligans responsible for the “extremely concerning” scenes at the West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers match to face criminal charges.
In a statement, West Midlands Police said: "Six people were arrested in connection with trouble at West Brom's game against Wolves yesterday, as officers vowed to make further arrests in connection with the unacceptable violence.
"Four West Brom supporters and two Wolves fans were arrested, and all have since been bailed while the investigation continues."
Those arrested were:
A 16-year-old held on suspicion of an offensive weapon after he was stopped by officers using Section 60 stop and search powers in a pub before the game.
A 29-year-old man arrested for affray after violence in one of the stands.
A 24-year-old man arrested for violent disorder after pushing towards officers.
A 33-year-old man arrested for violent disorder and assaulting police officers after pushing one officer to the floor and kicking out at another.
A 34-year-old man arrested on suspicion of a public order offence after picking up a corner flag and brandishing it as a weapon.
A 58-year-old man arrested for assaulting a police officer after throwing punches at officers.
Ch Insp Tim Robinson, from the West Midlands Police football department, said: “What we saw yesterday was completely unacceptable violence directed at both fans and officers, which sadly led to the suspension of the game.
"No football fan wants to see that. It’s important to stress however that it was very much a minority of fans involved in the trouble, and the vast majority of supporters were a credit to their clubs.
"Our policing operation was very much targeted against those who we know or suspect are involved in football violence, and our priority at all times is keeping people safe.
"A number of officers have been injured, and we have already started the process of reviewing evidence including body worn video and CCTV to ensure that we identify and arrest all of those involved over the coming days and weeks.
"We’ll be working with both clubs and the FA. Those involved in the disorder can expect to receive club bans and wider football banning orders.”
The prime minister’s official spokesman said: “Those scenes are extremely concerning, there’s no place for that kind of behaviour in football, the Prime Minister believes that everyone should be able to watch their team without any threat of violence or antisocial behaviour.
“He firmly expects anyone involved to face criminal charges and to be banned from future games.
“It’s right to thank the police for their bravery in keeping people safe. I believe a number of officers were injured and obviously that’s not tolerable.”
A Football Association statement read: “The disorder that occurred at the Black Country derby between West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers is completely unacceptable. Safety and security are of the utmost importance, and the behaviour of those involved is dangerous and inexcusable.
“We will be investigating these serious incidents alongside the clubs and the relevant authorities, and the appropriate action will be taken.”
Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know...