Police tear down banners mocking former Leicester City owner's death
Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha was killed in a helicopter crash in 2018
West Midlands Police have removed banners that appeared to mock the death of Leicester City's former owner.
Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha and four other people were killed when he was involved in a fatal helicopter crash in 2018 as it was lifting off from the King Power Stadium.
His sudden death stunned the club and the footballing world, with him receiving an outpouring of tributes from fans who were affected by his passing.
But ahead of the club's derby match against Coventry, photos began to circulate on social media of banners hanging over the M69 on Saturday (January 13th).
The route will see many Leicester City driving to the clash in Coventry, and as photos were shared of the offensive banners, many supporters hit out against the display.
West Midlands Police were informed of the banners and removed them from the motorway, before warning fans of the potential for prosecution.
Coventry City FC Police, a branch of the West Midlands Police force, took to social media to inform the public of the legislation and how, if caught, those responsible could face repercussions.
Both Leicester City and Coventry City were quick to distance themselves from the incident, with the clubs coming together to condemn the move from fans.
A statement issued on Coventry City's Twitter account read: "Coventry City completely condemns incidents today which have seen banners being displayed containing offensive content directed at Leicester City Football Club.
"Coventry City will work with West Midlands Police to identify those who created and displayed these banners, and take appropriate action against them," the statement continued.
"Such behaviour has no place in football or society, and these people are not welcome at our football club and will be subject to bans."
A Leicester City spokesperson thanked the club for stepping in so quickly in opposing the move, saying that the actions are "in contrast to the values of respect and unity that football should embody".
They added that the Foxes were "disappointed" in the "disrespectful" actions of a minority of fans who thought to carry the plan out.
However, this is not the first time that fans have mocked other supporters passing through the motorway in the run-up to the so-called "M69 Derby".
In August, Leicester City fans used the same motorway to make fun of Coventry City players as fans made their way to the King Power Stadium, ahead of Coventry's 2-1 defeat to Leicester City.