Statement on damage caused to Real Madrid team bus

Chief Superintendent Zoe Thornton said: “We can confirm an investigation is underway after damage was caused to the Real Madrid team bus this evening, as it approached Anfield Stadium ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League match with Real Madrid.

“Despite the advice to avoid attending the ground, approximately 400 people attended Anfield Road and as coaches approached, a number of items were thrown at the Real Madrid team bus. We are aware of images which show the outer pane of the lead coach window being damaged, the glass did not break through and there are no reported injuries. 

“A number of pyrotechnics were also lit in the area, which significantly reduced visibility and could have put other people in danger.

"As with all matches, we have worked very closely with both clubs to ensure the safety of the public and the teams themselves, and the disgraceful behaviour of those involved this evening is extremely disappointing and totally unacceptable. Such incidents will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

"A dedicated investigation team will be reviewing CCTV footage from the area, along with our own body worn camera footage, and working closely with the club to identify those responsible. I would also ask anyone who was in the area and captured mobile phone video footage of the incident to please get in touch.”

Anyone with information can also contact Merseyside Police social media desk via Twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police CC. You can also call 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information-online/