Several arrests made over football related violent disorder in Salford

Arrests have been made in relation to a football organised fight that began in Lower Broughton between Manchester United and FC Twente fans. 

The fight was reported near a pub in Lower Broughton, Salford the day before the fixture between the two clubs.

Greater Manchester Police went to the scene of the fight, with the group of supports had fled and headed towards Manchester city centre.

Following the incident officers from the Specialist Operations branch and from across the force, including Challenger teams, conducted several arrests around Greater Manchester.

The arrests made today (Wednesday 11 December), ahead of the Manchester Derby this weekend, with Manchester United supporters aged between 20 and 64 taken into custody for questioning.

With ten suspected high-risk supporters are now in custody, and being questioned over the recent violent disorder that occurred before the fixture between Manchester United and FC Twente back in September.

The GMP have also shared that these arrests are the first of many, as more are set to be identified.

During a search of two of the properties that were raided, officers also uncovered separate cannabis farms.

Following the discovery of cannabis, a 36-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of cultivation of drugs.

On the operation to bring suspects in, Chief Superintendent Colette Rose from Specialist Operations 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.

Ch Supt Rose continued: “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.”

Chief Superintendent Colette added: “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.”