THAMES Valley Police has released CCTV images of a man they wish to speak to following a “number” of incidents during Tuesday’s Reading FC match.
Reading FC played Oxford United for the first time in decades on Tuesday, December 12, ahead of which police put Section 35 dispersal orders in place around central Reading and the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
It was in anticipation of incidents of disorder, and in total 10 arrests were made during the course of the day related to disorder.
There was an increased police presence to ensure public safety during and around the match, and police worked with venues, door staff, and British Transport Police to keep incidents to a minimum.
However, following an incident of violent disorder in the town centre, 10 arrests were made, including a 17-year-old boy from Wokingham on suspicion of violent disorder.
The investigation concerns an incident on Friar Street and Station Road between 6.45pm and 7pm that evening.
Superintendent Lee Barnham, Silver Operational Commander for the Reading FC game, said: “We continue to investigate a number of incidents from throughout the evening.
“We are particularly keen to speak to the man pictured in the image below as he may have vital information regarding a public order incident in Friar Street and Station Road between 6.45pm and 7pm on Tuesday, December 12.
“We are appealing to anybody who recognises the man in these images to please get in touch with us as we believe he may have information that could assist our investigation.
“If you are the man pictured, please come forward as soon as possible. To contact us, call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43230556986.
“Alternatively, you can provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via their website.
“It has been a pleasure to once again work with Reading Football Club, British Transport Police, travel companies and licensed premises to ensure this match took place safely and enjoyably for those attending.
“Those arrested reflect a small minority of those in the town centre ahead of the game, with the match itself taking place without incident.”
“Officers will continue to support these local derbies and look forward to seeing many of the fans again for their next meeting at Oxford in February.”
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