Suspected Hooligans Arrested After Football Match

Police in Birmingham have arrested 19 men in a series of early morning raids targeting people suspected of being involved in disorder at a football derby match last month.

Officers raided 20 addresses across Birmingham as part of Operation Flowstream and it is understood that those arrested range in age between 14 to 45.

The raids follow violence, which occurred as people left the St Andrew's stadium, following the game between Aston Villa and Birmingham City on November 11.

During the disorder, police officers were deployed to prevent clashes between rival fans and around 40 officers were injured.

Damage was also caused to shops, vehicles and other property by a group of individuals.

Detective Sergeant Neil Groutage, based at Stetchford police station said: "West Midlands Police continues to clampdown on the minority of football fans who spoil the enjoyment of the game for the majority of peaceful fans who visit the stadiums and watch matches in other venues throughout the region.

"We will do everything we can to catch them and prosecute them."

Anyone found guilty of such offences will face a banning order, meaning they will no longer be able to follow their team, home or away."

(KMcA)