Drug-related arrests at London football stadiums have surged during the 2023/24 season, exposing an alarming trend in fan behaviour. Brentford Community Stadium, home to Premier League side Brentford FC, recorded the highest drug-related arrest rate in London, with one in every 8,327 attendees apprehended for possession offences. Among its 66 arrests across the season, 43 were drug-related, although only six involved Brentford’s own fans. This troubling trend underlines the mounting challenge of tackling drugs in football.

The Valley, home to Charlton Athletic, had the second-highest drug arrest rate, with one in 15,150 attendees arrested. Craven Cottage (Fulham) followed closely, with one in 16,787 fans apprehended. Despite ranking fifth for drug arrest rates, the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium saw the largest overall number of drug-related arrests, with 60 recorded over the season. Across London, a total of 1,114 arrests were made at football stadiums, with 454 occurring inside the grounds and 503 outside.

The issue isn’t confined to drugs alone. Wembley Stadium witnessed 254 arrests over the season, the most of any venue. Notable incidents included 56 arrests at the Champions League Final and 43 during the FA Cup Final. Arrests linked to hate crimes also remain concerning, with Stamford Bridge seeing 53 such incidents during the season.

Superintendent Gerry Parker of the Metropolitan Police highlighted the complexities of policing football in London, noting the challenges posed by large fan movements across the capital. Home Office statistics revealed a 14% rise in football-related arrests compared to the previous season, climbing to 2,584 incidents nationwide. Drug possession arrests alone increased by 144 year-on-year.

Clubs like West Ham have already implemented proactive measures, contributing to their 103 football-related arrests – the highest among Premier League teams. Banning orders have surged as well, with West Ham also ranking top in this category, issuing 93 orders.

The rise in drug-related arrests, coupled with increasing violent and anti-social behaviour, poses a significant threat, not only to stadium security but also to the integrity of the sport. These trends demand stronger measures, with a focus on prevention and strict enforcement to protect fans, clubs, and the game itself.

Source: Daily Mail