Commander's message after six East Lancashire Derby arrests

Saturday, January 4, 2025

Now full time has been blown on another East Lancashire Derby, we wanted to thank those fans who enjoyed the match in a respectful way.

Sadly, however some supporters let themselves, their clubs and their families down by committing criminal acts.

A man was arrested inside Ewood Park and remain in custody at this time. They are:

• A 52-year-old man from Darwen who was arrested on suspicion of common assault.

A further five people were arrested outside the stadium and also remain in custody. They are:

• A 19-year-old man from Burnley and a second individual who was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage.
• An 18-year-old man from Burnley who was arrested on suspicion of Assaulting a Police Officer
• A 53-year-old man from Preston who was arrested on suspicion of Section 5 Public Order.
• A 36-year-old man from Darwen was arrested on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly.

We are aware of other offences committed inside the stadium including the throwing of objects by both sets of supports, criminal damage in relation to the ripping out of seats and racist behaviour. We will be reviewing evidence, including all footage available, and working with both clubs to identify those involved. They should expect to be arrested and/or receive Football Banning Orders.

We will maintain an enhanced police presence throughout East Lancashire for the remainder of the day.

Supt Derry Crorken, who was Silver Commander for the fixture, said: “Today saw a significant policing operation to ensure the latest chapter of the East Lancashire Derby passed off safely.

“I would like to thank the vast majority of supporters for supporting their team the correct way during what was a fiercely contested match.

“Unfortunately, a handful of mindless individuals engaged in criminal acts. Some of those individuals have been arrested and are currently in custody. We will thoroughly review the evidence gathered so far and look to make further arrests going forward.”