Investigation underway after police officer hit in face with bottle at Derby game

We are investigating after a police officer was hit in the face with a bottle ahead of the LFC v EFC match at Anfield today, Saturday 21^st October.

The officer was outside the ground when the bottle was thrown towards him at around 11.50am. He suffered a laceration to his face and was treated in the first aid room at the stadium. He has since retired from duty.

It has since emerged that at the same time a female supporter was also injured by a bottle. 

CCTV and witness enquiries have been carried out and we are linking in with both clubs to identify the person or people responsible.

Silver Commander Chief Inspector Iain Wyke said: “This type of behaviour is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated. The police officer was at the ground to ensure that all match-goers were able to enjoy the game safely so to be assaulted in such a manner when he was simply doing his job is shocking.

“Our police officers understand the risks of the job, but they should never have to tolerate violence against them when they are simply attempting to carry out their duties.

“We are carrying out enquiries to identify the person or persons responsible for both incidents and will work with both clubs. I know most football fans would rightly be appalled by this and I would encourage anyone who witnessed the incidents to contact us."

Anyone who has information is asked to DM @MerPolCC or contact CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111 quoting log 206 of 21^st October.

• In total officers made eight arrests at today’s game for offences including ticket touting, breach of the peace, possession of a controlled drug Class A and public order offences, including hate and tragedy chanting offences.