West Brom vs Wolves: Six arrests made following fan violence as FA launch investigation

Six people were arrested in connection with trouble at West Bromwich Albion's game against Wolverhampton Wanderers yesterday (January 28).

Wolves won the Black Country derby 2-0 but play was halted for around 40 minutes after trouble broke out in the stands following Wolves' second goal in the 78th minute. Four West Brom supporters and two Wolves fans were arrested, and all have since been bailed while the investigation continues.

Those arrested were:

• A 16-year-old was held on suspicion of an offensive weapon after he was stopped by officers using Section 60 stop and search powers in a pub before the game.
• A 29-year-old man arrested for affray after violence in one of the stands.
• A 24-year-old man arrested for violent disorder after pushing towards officers.
• A 33-year-old man arrested for violent disorder and assaulting police officers after pushing one officer to the floor and kicking out at another.
• A 34-year-old man arrested on suspicion of a public order offence after picking up a corner flag and brandishing it as a weapon.
• A 58-year-old man arrested for assaulting a police officer after throwing punches at officers

What has West Midlands Police said about the violence?

Chief Inspector Tim Robinson, from the force's football department, said: “What we saw yesterday was completely unacceptable violence directed at both fans and officers, which sadly led to the suspension of the game.

“No football fan wants to see that. It’s important to stress however that it was very much a minority of fans involved in the trouble, and the vast majority of supporters were a credit to their clubs. Our policing operation was very much targeted against those who we know or suspect are involved in football violence, and our priority at all times is keeping people safe.

"A number of officers have been injured, and we have already started the process of reviewing evidence including body worn video and CCTV to ensure that we identify and arrest all of those involved over the coming days and weeks.

"We’ll be working with both clubs and the FA. Those involved in the disorder can expect to receive club bans and wider football banning orders.”

FA statement

An FA statement read: "The disorder that occurred at the Black Country derby between West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers is completely unacceptable. Safety and security are of the utmost importance, and the behaviour of those involved is dangerous and inexcusable.

"We will be investigating these serious incidents alongside the clubs and the relevant authorities, and the appropriate action will be taken."