Police issue new statement after 39 arrested in Manchester United vs Rangers chaos

Greater Manchester Police has issued a new statement after 39 people were arrested in connection with Manchester United's game against Rangers last night.

Chaos broke out on Great Ancoats Street ahead of the Europa League tie as fans were seen setting off flares and throwing bottles, resulting in 26 arrests.

Officers have now said further arrests were made at the game on suspicion of drug offences, drunk and disorderly behaviour, tragedy chanting, and assault of a steward. More than 450 officers across GMP were deployed through the night, with the 'vast majority' of arrests taking place before the game.

In a statement the force said: "Officers were working through the evening to keep people safe across Manchester last night as over 70,000 football fans headed to Old Trafford to watch Manchester United play Glasgow Rangers.

"More than 450 officers across GMP were deployed through the night with 39 arrests being made in total – the vast majority being before the game.

"We made 26 arrests in the Ancoats area of the city after some disorder broke out just after 6pm. Further arrests were made on suspicion of drug offences, drunk and disorderly behaviour, tragedy chanting, and assault of a steward.

"Ensuring thousands of match-going fans arrive safely for such an event takes a considerable amount of planning, consideration, and dedication.

"We worked with both football clubs and their respective supporters’ groups in the months leading up to the game to ensure the match passed safely with as little disruption to the wider public as possible.

"Thankfully, after the game there were no further incidents outside the stadium as supporters headed home."

(Image: Nick Butterworth)

Assistant Chief Constable Chris Sykes, match commander for the game, added: “These high-profile fixtures are always exciting occasions, but they also naturally present challenges to ensure that the thousands of spectators can enjoy the game safely and to minimise disruption for the wider public.

“Last night, we did see some incidents before the game which required a prompt response from our officers to prevent any further disorder and harm. Arrests were made and further disorder was prevented.

“An operation like this takes weeks, if not months, of planning with both clubs and all our local partners. Generally the crowds have been really well behaved and the vast majority have had a safe and enjoyable time watching the game in Manchester.”

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