A new statement from the Metropolitan police yesterday has reignited the media debate over police inside the London Stadium. Although it says a full Airwave radio solution will now not be available until February 2017 it does say they have a tactical solution in place until then and can enter if needed.
A statement read: “The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) has a comprehensive policing plan for the match on Wednesday October 26 between West Ham United and Chelsea. The MPS is working with partners to prevent crime and disorder.
“The MPS has a tactical solution for matches being held at the London Stadium which will allow the safe deployment of officers into the stadium, if required, to deal with any crime or disorder.
“The MPS, working with London Stadium and Airwave, are confident that a full in-building radio solution will be operational at the London Stadium in February 2017.”
However, ClaretandHugh were told a Met Police Football unit meeting earlier this month that Police have no intention of entering the stadium on a regular basis unless called upon to deal with any reports of crimes or public disorder.
Ahead of the category C his risk game next Wednesday the police briefed us on some important facts (below) which appear to have been completely missed in the wider media coverage in their reporting ahead of this potential mid week fixture flashpoint.
London Stadium Policing Facts
– Operators London Stadium 185 are responsible for the stewarding and crowd management around and in the stadium, not the police service!.
– The police will be present to perform their core functions in protecting life and property only.
– There will be more police on duty than you would have seen at the Boleyn ground but only because the area is much larger.
– The police are prepared to enter the stadium if required and only then – as it is at most London Premier league fixtures now.
– There is extensive high definition CCTV in and around the stadium. Those breaking the law will be recorded and caught.
– Fans should work out their routes to the stadium in advance and get there in plenty of time due to 100% searching policy.