Police investigate trouble after Pompey match

Officers describe it as 'mindless acts of violence and criminal damage'

Published 17th Apr 2024

Police say they're investigating reports of trouble following the Portsmouth match last night.

Pompey secured promotion to the Championship with a 3-2 win over Barnsley at Fratton Park.

Officers were called out to O'Neill's pub in Albert Road in Southsea at around 11pm.

300 people were there at the time - with claims of theft, criminal damage and racial abuse towards a staff member.

The disorder is reported to have continued into surrounding streets, with people present then moving off in reduced groups to other establishments as well.

There were also a report of criminal damage at Drift Bar, and a man being assaulted in Palmerston Road.

Chief Inspector Paul Markham, district commander for Portsmouth, said: "Portsmouth's win against Barnsley last night was a fantastic moment for the club and for the city, and a moment everyone rightly wanted to celebrate.

"Sadly, a small number of people saw this as an opportunity to commit mindless acts of violence and criminal damage as part of the wider celebrations.

"Officers have been out in Southsea today and we are working hard to identify any and all offences committed and ensure all lines of enquiry available are thoroughly investigated to identify people responsible.

"If you do have any concerns or information which may assist, then please do not hesitate to speak with officers or contact us with this.

"The vast majority of those attending the game last night were there to enjoy the occasion and wanted no involvement in any disorder, and we know this has been the case throughout the season.

"We will not tolerate the minority who wish to use events such as this one to commit crime.

"On Saturday, there will be football in Portsmouth again, with the final home game of the season against Wigan. We consistently review our plans for all matchdays, and last night's actions will form part of this review of our resources for the game."

If you do have any information, you can submit this online via the website or by calling 101, and quoting the reference 44240159965.

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