More bobbies on the ball for World Cup

Thursday 14 June 2018

As the World Cup gets underway today, islanders can expect to see more Police about town to ensure that celebrations – or commiserations – don’t get out of hand with flares, fireworks or disruptive behaviour.

Police officials said that there would be “additional presence” in “key areas” during games, but declined to state how many more officers there would be and where those areas were.

Ahead of the first match, they called for supporters of all teams to respect each other, and to stay well away explosives.

40 people were arrested back in 2006 after fighting broke out in the streets of St. Helier following an England vs Portgual World Cup match. Around 150 people were involved in the altercation, which involved bottles and missiles being launched at officers. 

Minden Place was sealed off and riot Police were deployed for only the second time in island history.

Pictured: Minden Place had to be closed off in 2006 following World Cup-related rioting.

The officer leading the World Cup policing efforts warned that any bad behaviour this time round would be dealt with “robustly.”

Inspector Andy Bisson commented: “This is an opportunity for a multi-cultural following to enjoy and celebrate whatever the outcome. Whilst we understand the various ways in which different cultures celebrate, sometimes in large groups, they must be mindful of the impact this may have on others and we ask the wider community to be tolerant during these times of celebration.”

“Previous football events have seen supporters discharging flares and fireworks and we would ask that people understand the extreme dangers that these can cause. Whilst we wish that celebrations are peaceful and enjoyable for all, we will deal with any disorderly and disruptive behaviour robustly.”