What do the police do at football matches?
Presence and Patrols
Police officers are deployed in and around stadiums. They patrol the stands, concourses, and surrounding areas to deter criminal activity and respond quickly to incidents.
Crowd Control
Specialised units, such as the Public Order Unit, manage large crowds, especially during high-profile matches. They use barriers, mounted police, and strategic positioning to manage spectators.
Arrests and Detentions
Officers are authorised to arrest individuals involved in violent or disorderly conduct. They also detain those found in possession of prohibited items, such as flares or alcohol, within the stadium premises.
Surveillance
CCTV Monitoring
Extensive CCTV systems are installed in and around stadiums to monitor fans. These cameras provide real-time footage to control rooms.
Facial Recognition Technology
Some venues employ facial recognition technology to identify fans and individuals with banning orders.
Drones
Drones are increasingly used to monitor large crowds from above, providing a view of the stadium and its surroundings.
Alcohol and Drug Testing
Random alcohol and drug testing is conducted at entry points to prevent intoxicated individuals from entering the stadium.
Intelligence Gathering
Police gather intelligence on potential threats and coordinate with other law enforcement agencies to prevent incidents. This includes monitoring social media for signs of planned disorder or violence.
Sources: cps.gov.uk, sentencingcouncil.org.uk, bbc.co.uk, news.sky.com