Liverpool vs Roma: Police vow to crack down on any pre-match fan violence
Local police are on alert for any untoward behaviour ahead of Tuesday's Champions League last-four clash, promising a 'firm, fair and friendly' approach
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Police have vowed to crack down on any fan disturbances around Liverpool's Champions League semi-final against Roma, following the ugly scenes which marred Manchester City arrival at Anfield in the previous round.
City's coach was badly damaged by objects thrown by supporters in the street when the sides met earlier this month - actions which led to a UEFA charge and strong condemnation from Reds boss Jurgen Klopp.
Local police are on alert for any untoward behaviour ahead of Tuesday's last-four clash, promising a "firm, fair and friendly" approach which they hope will keep football in the headlines.
Merseyside Police chief superintendent Dave Charnock said: "We are expecting a vibrant atmosphere at Tuesday's match, but our intention is that at the end of the day we will be talking about the game and what happened on the pitch as opposed to off the pitch. As always, my officers will be dealing with the fans, as they would expect to be treated themselves.
"Our policing style will be firm, fair and friendly, but we will take action where necessary, against those individuals who may seek to cause problems or misbehave and spoil the evening for the majority of supporters.
"We know that this will be a busy operation and we hope that fans attending the match will act as ambassadors for their clubs and enjoy what I am sure will be a good game.
"Both sets of supporters will be delighted that their teams have reached the semis and that is an achievement worth celebrating for both clubs."
Liverpool City Council has provided mobile CCTV to assist the effort, while specially trained dogs will be on hand to detect pyrotechnics such as fireworks and flares.
Charnock added: "While recognising that some supporters feel they can add to the atmosphere of the occasion, the use of flares and other pyrotechnics at and around football matches is a concern.
"We fully support the club in working to eradicate this dangerous and reckless practice and would ask that supporters work with us.
"The police and courts take these offences very seriously and prosecution can result in a prison sentence. I would remind people that this can apply not only within the stadium, but also in the surrounding streets and when attempting to enter the ground.
"Merseyside Police is committed to ensuring that everyone involved and attending the game has a safe and enjoyable experience and we will not tolerate any criminal, or anti-social behaviour."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments