Successful Policing Operation Ensures Safe South-Coast Derby at Fratton Park

Police have thanked officers, staff, football clubs, supporters and the local community following a successful policing operation at yesterday’s south-coast derby at Fratton Park.

The high-profile fixture passed without any major disruption, following months of detailed planning by police to support both clubs as they faced each other again this season.

Chief Superintendent Simon Dodds, Gold Commander for the policing operation, praised the professionalism of officers and the cooperation of fans and partners throughout the event.

He said: “From our policing perspective this has been another successful operation with the match passing without any major disruption. I’m also glad the fans got some goals to celebrate this time around.

“The priority for us has always been the safety of the fans and the community, so that families had the confidence to bring their children and enjoy this unique footballing occasion together, without the fear of trouble ruining it for everyone.

“And thanks to many months of careful planning, I’m pleased that we managed to achieve that, mirroring the approach taken by the clubs and keeping the focus on the football, with only a handful of arrests necessary.

“We certainly could not have done this alone and I would like to thank both football clubs, their fans and the local community for their ongoing support of our work.

“It has been great to hear so many positive comments from those at the game, who appreciated the efforts of our officers and staff to get them to and from the ground without incident.

“It is their incredible professionalism and dedication that allowed us to succeed in keeping you safe.”

Police said officers and staff worked extensively in the lead-up to the match to ensure safety plans were robust, proportionate and focused on enabling supporters to enjoy the occasion safely. The operation aimed to support the clubs’ own approach and maintain a positive atmosphere around the fixture.

The force added that the cooperation shown by supporters and the wider community played a key role in the success of the operation, allowing the match to take place safely and with minimal disruption.