A ‘crucial’ day lies ahead for police as protests and football events coincide
Today is expected to be a crucial and challenging day for police across the UK as they manage both protests and the return of the football season.
Far-right and anti-racism rallies are scheduled at various locations around the country, while the start of the English Football League season will see thousands of football fans traveling across the UK.
According to Stephen Roberts, former deputy assistant commissioner for the Metropolitan Police, there may be some overlap between these groups, creating additional challenges for officers.
“Today will be a critical and quite difficult day for the police service,” he told Sky News.
“We not only have the potential for major demonstrations, but it’s also the first Saturday of the football season.
“As a result, police forces will be stretched, dealing with both potential football-related issues and public order concerns. I have to say, I think there’s likely a significant overlap between the two.”
So far, over 700 people have been arrested in connection with the violent disorder that has gripped the country over the past two weeks.
Approximately 300 individuals have been charged with offenses ranging from theft and antisocial behavior to inciting violence online.
The first prison sentences have already been issued to those involved in the unrest, with some receiving up to three years in prison as their cases are fast-tracked through the courts to serve as a warning to potential offenders.
“The coordination between the police, the Crown Prosecution Service, and the courts has been a significant achievement,” said Mr. Roberts.
“This sends a clear message to those thinking of causing trouble—if you break the law today, by the end of the week, you could be in prison.
“And don’t expect to be out by Christmas, or even the next Christmas.”
