Portsmouth: 'Number of offences' investigated after hundreds of football fans descend on pub
Hampshire police are following up on reports of assault, theft, criminal damage and the racial abuse of a staff member during celebrations in the city on Tuesday.
Wednesday 17 April 2024 21:56, UK
Police are appealing for witnesses after hundreds of football fans descended on a pub where disorder took place - including theft, criminal damage and racial abuse - after Portsmouth FC secured promotion to the Championship.
The offences took place at the O'Neill's pub in Albert Road in Southsea, Portsmouth, after the club beat Barnsley 3 - 2 on Tuesday evening to win the League One title.
The pub was packed with Portsmouth fans celebrating the win at the time of the disorder, The News local site reports.
Meanwhile, videos shared on social media suggest Portsmouth FC players were at the pub during the disorder.
A spokesperson from the club told Sky News: "The club are engaging with all those concerned as part of ongoing investigations."
It comes as one video on social media claims to show some supporters standing on the roof of a covered area in the beer garden as dozens of fans cheer outside the pub.
A Hampshire police spokesman said about 300 people are believed to have been present at the time of the offences.
They added that the force had received reports of a "number of offences" including the racial abuse of a staff member.
The spokesman said: "The disorder is reported to have continued into surrounding streets, with people present then moving off in reduced groups to other establishments as well.
"We have also received a report of criminal damage in Drift Bar, and of a man being assaulted in Palmerston Road.
"Officers attended and remained in the area into the early hours of the morning."
Read more from Sky News:
Viral YouTuber Angry Rantman dies aged 27
Police say thigh is found at nature reserve
Hospital investigating after mother handed wrong baby
Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News
The force added that officers have been taking statements, seizing evidence and CCTV footage, and identifying all offences committed during the disorder.
Chief Inspector Paul Markham said Portsmouth FC's win over Barnsley was a "fantastic moment" for the city that "everyone rightly wanted to celebrate".
Be the first to get Breaking News
Install the Sky News app for free
He added: "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... 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."