Jump directly to the content
Hammers Misery

More West Ham woe as police say they cannot be at their home games to prevent violence

London Stadium has 'no satisfactory radio system across the ground' and it could be December by the time the problem is sorted

Sponsored by

POLICE have refused to be present for West Ham's next home game because there is no satisfactory radio system installed.

The Hammers have come under increasing pressure after violence broke out between their own supporters during the 4-2 defeat against Watford at the London Stadium.

 Trouble flared between supporters during West Ham's clash with Watford
3
Trouble flared between supporters during West Ham's clash with WatfordCredit: Getty Images
 West Ham fans attempted to storm the Watford section of the ground with segregation easily breached
3
West Ham fans attempted to storm the Watford section of the ground with segregation easily breachedCredit: Getty Images

West Ham are not responsible for security at the ground and demanded that London Stadium owners, E20, improve stewarding at matches.

Home supporters also attacked Watford fans highlighting that the segregation in the stand was completely inadequate.

Owners at West Ham held urgent talks with E20 after Saturday's havoc and demanded that there was a police presence to protect supporters.

 There is no satisfactory radio system in the stadium
3
There is no satisfactory radio system in the stadium

However, they may need to look at different options after the police revealed the radio system in the stadium is not good enough.

Deputy assistant commissioner for Met Police, Peter Terry said: "The stadium operators are responsible for the safety and comfort of their customers and staff.

"This includes disorderly behaviour that has not reached the level of criminality.

"The MPS is not able to provide Special Policing Services at this time as it would normally, as there is no satisfactory radio system across the ground."

Stadium operators, LS185, are in the process of installing working radio systems but it may not be until December until it is finally completed.

Topics