News
15 arrested for various offences as GMP thanks football fans for ‘successful’ Manchester derby
GMP it worked hard to "ensure the safety and enjoyment" of all.
Emily Sergeant -
7th March 2024 
15 people have been arrested on suspicion of various offences following the Manchester Derby last weekend, it has been confirmed.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed the arrests, as it thanked football fans for a “successful” match – which saw the city painted blue after Manchester City clinched the win with a 3-1 result over local cross-town rivals, Manchester United.
53,000 people were in attendance at the Etihad Stadium last Sunday afternoon (3 March) for what was the second Manchester derby of the 2023/24 Premier League season.
GMP says officers worked hard to “ensure the safety and enjoyment” of all spectators and the public, not only at the Etihad Stadium, but also on travel networks, and in Manchester city centre and other key locations where people gathered to watch.
Of that number of fans in attendance at the stadium, a total of 15 people were arrested, with two dearrested, and 13 then taken into police custody for different offences.
The offences were as follows:
- Five on suspicion of drug offences
- Five on suspicion of assault
- Two on suspicion of ‘tragedy chanting’
One fan was also arrested on suspicion of possession of a firework/flare at a sporting event, and throwing a missile onto a football playing area – but he was charged with this offence on Monday (4 March), and bailed with conditions.
Despite the arrests made, GMP has been quick to thank and express gratitude to the “vast majority” of fans for their cooperation on the day.
Speaking this week following the Manchester derby, Superintendent Gareth Parkin, who is GMP’s commander for the event, said: “On behalf of GMP, I would like to thank the vast majority of supporters of both teams who enjoyed their day responsibly and safely.
“Most of the arrests this weekend were the result of proactive policing, and members of the public reporting incidents to us.
“A thorough policing operation was in place and GMP worked closely with partner agencies, including local authorities, British Transport Police, Transport for Greater Manchester, and both football clubs, to ensure the safety of all spectators and supporters who watched the match.
Read more:
- One charged for ‘throwing missile’ and another released on bail after ‘tragedy chanting’ during Manchester derby
- Netflix to air highly-anticipated documentary about Manchester City’s treble-winning season
- Ole Gunnar Solskjær reveals how close he was to signing three star players at Manchester United
“Finally, I want to thank our partners who were involved in months of planning and helped organise a successful event.”
Featured Image – GMP
