Police forces across the country handled more than twice as many football-related incidents after the Euro 2020 final compared to any previous tournament match.
The overwhelming majority of the armed forces across England and Wales, including the UK Transport Police, saw an overnight surge in demand related to Sunday’s England v Italy game.
There were at least 875 incidents in total. This is more than double the number of incidents related to games at previous tournaments – including the 2018 World Cup semi-final match between England and Croatia, than there were 335.
After England’s last 16 game against Iceland at Euro 2016, only 57 incidents were reported.
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Police arrest a fan outside Wembley
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A torch is lit in front of the police near Leicester Square, London. Image: AP
Of the incidents reported last night, approximately 496 occurred on licensed premises. There were a total of 246 football-related arrests.
Chief Constable Mark Roberts, the head of soccer for the National Police Chiefs Council, said: “While the result was not what we hoped for last night, it is absolutely no excuse for the appalling behavior we have seen across the country .
“I am very disappointed to see the significant increase in incidents in previous tournaments compared to England.
“After the year the country has passed, I can understand that people are eager to make the most of the easing of restrictions. However, there is no excuse for the violent and frightening behavior of a sizeable minority who have chosen to drink or use drugs excessively. and get involved in criminal activities. “
CC Roberts added, “Police forces across the country were well prepared for a surge in demand and incidents were handled robustly, but the scale of the problems clearly presented challenges.
“Nineteen Metropolitan Police officers were attacked last night and many more were injured in attacks across the country, which is worrying and should not have any part in the country enjoying a sporting event.
“Our police officers are there for people’s safety. Threats or injuries are not part of their job and attacks on them are always taken seriously.”
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Wembley hosted the Euro 2020 final between England and Italy
Last night’s numbers bring the total number of incidents over the top Euro 2020 Tournament at 2,322, with 622 arrests. At the 2018 World Cup, 1,487 incidents and 337 arrests were reported throughout the tournament.
The UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU) has also launched an investigation racial hatred directed against players after playing online.
CC Roberts said: “Although we are all disappointed with the result, the English team have behaved impeccably and set an excellent example of their behavior. Abusing our own players after last night’s game An investigation to identify the perpetrators is ongoing.
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“When a Euro 2020-related report is received, the details are sent to the UKFPU, where colleagues and the dedicated Euro 2020 investigation team evaluate the content.
“With the support of the respective social media company, you will then be able to make initial investigations to find the perpetrator in a timely manner. We received excellent support from Facebook, Instagram and Twitter during the tournament and the investigation is already underway.
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“If the details of a perpetrator are identified, these are passed on to the responsible local force for further investigations to be carried out and appropriate measures to be taken in cooperation with the CPS.
“The UKFPU also works closely with the FA to ensure that appropriate support is available when needed.”
