Police hunt for 16 people following violent disorder after Southampton football match
Officers say it happened during the Saints' play-off semi final against West Brom in May
Last updated 22nd Jul 2024
Police are hunting 16 people after violent disorder at Southampton's play-off semi final against West Brom.
Since the match took place on May 17, officers from our investigations team and football unit have been working to identify any potential offences committed and those we wish to speak with as part of our enquiries.
Among the offences identified, there was two incidents of police officers allegedly being assaulted, nine incidents of objects reportedly being thrown at supporters, including three flares and a chair, and five alleged incidents of affray.
Chief Inspector Marcus Kennedy, deputy district commander for Southampton and who oversaw the policing operation for the game, said: "This was a night of celebration for the Southampton fans, the club and for the city as a whole, setting the team on course to win the play off final and return to the Premier League.
"We absolutely do not want to prevent the celebration of such occasions, but there was a small number of supporters who used it as an opportunity to commit offences, and this will not be tolerated.
"Not only does this put the safety of other supporters in danger, as well as stewards, and the many other people who work close to pitch side at a professional football game, it damages the reputation of the club and its fans.
"Our team have been working hard since the match to identify anyone involved.
"However, we do now have a small number of supporters we wish to identify with your help.
"If you do recognise any of these supporters, or indeed you see a photo of yourself then please make contact with us.
"Our teams of expert spotters will also be keeping a close eye as the football season gets underway again to identify and speak with any of those in these pictures if we do not do so before then."
Anyone with information can contact us on 101 or via our website, quoting the reference 44240304463.
You can also contact Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or on their website.
Chief Inspector Kennedy added: "The vast majority of those attending the football do so without any incident, but for the very small minority who try to use it as an opportunity behave inappropriately or outside the law, the message from us is really clear; we will not tolerate it and will take action."