Four arrrests over racial chanting at Dagenham and Redbridge FC match

Four people have been arrested following alleged racist abuse during a Dagenham and Redbridge FC “Daggers against Racism” football match.

Police launched an investigation after reports were made of racist chanting directed at a group of schoolboys from Tower Hamlets on March 3.

A 20-year-old and two 17-year-olds were arrested for offences against the Football Offences Act 1991 last Wednesday. The 20-year-old and one of the 17-year-olds were also arrested for racially aggravated public order offences.

The following day a 16-year-old was also arrested and police have not ruled out further arrests as the investigation continues.

All four have been released on police bail.

During the Dagenham and Redbridge v Bradford match around 25 to 30 youths were seen and heard to be chanting racist slogans that were directed at schoolboys, some of whom were as young as eight.

A decision was made not to make arrests at the time due to risk to public safety should a public order situation erupt. Instead, those causing the disturbance were quietly ejected from the stadium by police officers and club security.

Following the event the club’s CCTV was viewed and security staff spoken to and the main suspects were identified.

All four have been released on police bail pending further enquires.