17 April 2024 , 19:23
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Police are investigating 'mindless acts of violence', racial abuse, theft and criminal damage as Portsmouth promotion celebrations went out of control on Tuesday night.
Pompey secured a return to the Championship with a win over Barnsley at Fratton Park. John Mousinho's side ensured they earned the League One title with a 3-2 win after initially finding themselves both 1-0 and 2-1 down.
While supporters invaded the pitch upon the full time whistle, the celebrations soon arrived in Southsea as players and supporters arrived at an O'Neill's pub. The venue saw goalkeeper Will Norris get behind the bar and fans singing outside after a fire alarm saw it evacuated.
The bar was left beer-soaked with chairs and tables scattered and Hampshire Police are now investigating a number of serious allegations. Reports of disorder began before 11pm with officers remaining present throughout the early hours - and enquiries continued on Wednesday.
The force's statement read: "We are investigating disorder which happened in Portsmouth last night (April 16) following the football. We started to receive calls just before 11pm to reports of disorder ongoing at O'Neill's pub in Albert Road, Southsea.
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"It is believed around 300 people were present at the time, and we have received reports of a number of offences, including theft, criminal damage and racial abuse aimed at a staff member.
"The disorder is reported to have continued into surrounding streets, with people present then moving off in reduced groups to other establishments as well.
The fire alarm caused the bar to be evacuated (Twitter)
Captain Marlon Pack attempted to do a speech to those in attendance but was interrupted (Twitter)"We have also received a report of criminal damage in Drift Bar, and of a man being assaulted in Palmerston Road. Officers attended and remained in the area into the early hours of the morning.
"Our enquiries continue today, with officers present taking statements, seizing evidence and any CCTV footage, and identifying all offences committed during the disorder."
Chief Inspector Paul Markham, district commander for Portsmouth, added: "Portsmouth's win against Barnsley last night was a fantastic moment for the club and for the city, and a moment everyone rightly wanted to celebrate.
"Sadly, a small number of people saw this as an opportunity to commit mindless acts of violence and criminal damage as part of the wider celebrations.
"Officers have been out in Southsea today and we are working hard to identify any and all offences committed and ensure all lines of enquiry available are thoroughly investigated to identify people responsible.
"If you do have any concerns or information which may assist, then please do not hesitate to speak with officers or contact us with this.
"The vast majority of those attending the game last night were there to enjoy the occasion and wanted no involvement in any disorder, and we know this has been the case throughout the season. We will not tolerate the minority who wish to use events such as this one to commit crime.
"On Saturday, there will be football in Portsmouth again, with the final home game of the season against Wigan. We consistently review our plans for all matchdays, and last night's actions will form part of this review of our resources for the game."
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