Greater Manchester Police execute search warrants following an investigation into football hooliganism
Police investigating a huge organised fight between rival hooligans in Salford have arrested ten 'high-risk' Manchester United supporters suspected of being involved in violence with Dutch supporters the day before the Reds took on FC Twente earlier this year.
A fight between a reported 80 men erupted near a pub in Lower Broughton on the afternoon of September 25 but by the time Greater Manchester Police attended the supporters had fled and made their way into Manchester city centre. Pictures later appeared online of what appeared to be masked United hooligans who claimed their Dutch rival ended up running away,
The following night United played out a 1-1 draw with FC Twente at Old Trafford in the Europa League. Ahead of the Manchester derby on Sunday, this morning officers from GMP's Specialist Operations branch arrested ten men, aged between 20 and 64, on suspicion of violent disorder. They remained in police custody for questioning.
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The investigation into the brawl is continuing, and more arrests could follow. The scrap prompted nearby residents to call police but by the time officers arrived the perpetrators had fled. There are no reports anyone suffered serious injury.
During a search of two of the properties that were raided, officers also uncovered separate cannabis farms. A 36-year-old woman was subsequently arrested on suspicion of cultivation of drugs.
Bosses at GMP stressed their op is a 'strong reminder' that trouble won't be tolerated ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby at the Etihad stadium.
Chief Superintendent Colette Rose, of GMP, said: "Our proactive and positive action today has been targeted to highlight that organised violence of any kind has no place in Greater Manchester.
"It does not reflect most people who go to events and games without any intention to cause fear or to commit crime. With another big fixture coming this weekend, we want to send a strong message and reassurance that our specialised officers will be deployed to ensure you remain safe and peace is maintained, so you can enjoy the game.
"On occasions when enforcement is needed, those who are intent on causing harm will have to answer for their actions.
"I would like to remind those attending fixtures over the Christmas period that you can continue to report your concerns directly to our officers or through 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, you can speak anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”