A major police operation involving more than 700 officers ensured Aston Villa's Europa League match against Maccabi Tel Aviv passed without any major incident, despite ten arrests being made.
Massive Police Presence Prevents Serious Disorder
West Midlands Police have confirmed that their large-scale operation at Villa Park on Thursday, November 6, was successful in its primary aims. Chief Supt Tom Joyce of Birmingham Police stated that the event, which saw protest groups from both pro-Israel and pro-Palestine perspectives outside the ground, was managed effectively. The police confirmed there was no serious disorder and no disruption to the game itself.
Details of the Arrests and Charges
In total, ten individuals were arrested for a variety of offences in the vicinity of the stadium. By Friday, November 7, five of those arrested remained in police custody. The most serious allegation involved a 21-year-old man accused of attempting to throw a firework into the ground.
Other significant arrests included two men, aged 34 and 29, who were held on suspicion of a racially-aggravated public order offence after reportedly shouting abuse at pro-Israel demonstrators. Police noted that the arrests included incidents of racially aggravated abuse directed at both pro-Israel and pro-Palestine groups.
Of the other individuals detained, one 21-year-old man was charged with failing to remove a face covering during a Section 60 order. Two people received cautions, and two others were released with no further action.
Coordinated National Effort and Community Feedback
The substantial police presence, comprising over 700 officers, was a coordinated effort drawing personnel from more than 20 different police forces across the country. Chief Supt Joyce praised the planning and hard work that went into the operation, highlighting its success in keeping everyone safe.
He also expressed gratitude to the local community in Aston, stating, "They shared their concerns with us and we are able to respond to those concerns and make them a part of our preparations for the day." The police confirmed they have received positive feedback from members of the public who attended the match or protests, noting that people were able to both exercise their right to protest and enjoy the football game.
