Moment hooligans punch police trying to remove fan in shocking mass brawl at Bolton game
THIS is the shocking moment football yobs brawled with cops as officers tried to remove a troublesome fan from the crowd.
Chaotic scenes erupted at Saturday afternoon’s Championship match between Wigan and Bolton Wanderers -which finished 5-2 to the home side.
In the video, officers can be seen trying to drag away a Wanderers supporter from the stands, before others away fans get involved and escalate the situation rapidly.
Fans can be seen surrounding officers in the stands at the DW Stadium – while others hurl abuse at the unformed bobbies.
Punches then appear to be thrown during the chaotic brawl and at least one officer can be seen falling to the ground in the scuffle.
There were also reports of supporters allegedly throwing coins and bottles at rival fans, reports the M.E.N.
One Wanderers supporter who asked to remain anonymous claimed small children were caught up in the “middle of the whole thing”.
He said: “It was awful. I’m not sure what started it, but I believe the police were trying to spot those who were throwing coins and bottles at the Wigan fans.
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“There was a constant onslaught of bottles and coins which were being thrown between the two sets of supporters – with no security present.
“There were a number of small children and young families there, right in the middle of the whole thing.”
The footage, taken at the away end, has been shared hundreds of times on social media.
A spokesperson for Bolton Wanderers FC said: “We utterly condemn the actions of those involved in the alleged disorder and are supporting Greater Manchester Police in their investigations.”
GMP said that four people were arrested at the match – three for public order offences and one for section 47 assault. They remain in police custody.
Superintendent Graeme Openshaw said: “While the vast majority of fans enjoyed today’s local derby responsibly, officers had to make a number of arrests.
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“We understand the passion involved in matches like this. However, we won’t hesitate to take action when the actions of a minority spoil things for others.”
Reece Jones, who captured some of the incident on video, said: “Scenes like this should never be seen at a football game.
“Awful from both parties and I hope this can be used to punish the appropriate people.”
Another user wrote: “#BWFC fans attacking the police after losing 5-2 to local rivals #WAFC. Absolutely shocking, no place for it in football!”