OFFICER INJURED AS FANS CLASH
COPS SPAT AT AND FLARES LET OFF AS TRAFFIC BROUGHT TO STANDSTILL BY TROUBLE
Ugly scenes in town face-off before arch-rivals’ Welsh Cup tie:
A police officer was taken to hospital after being injured in a clash between rival football fans.
Crowds of supporters took to the streets in Upper Bangor ahead of a Welsh Cup fixture at nearby Nantporth which Caernarfon won 2-1.
Police say one officer was injured after supporters managed to break through a cordon at just before 7pm on Saturday ahead of the derby between Bangor City and Caernarfon Town.
Traffic was brought to a standstill and the road cordoned off while police tackled the opposing fans.
It is understood flares were let off and police officers kicked and spat at while fans could be heard jeering at their rivals in a stand-off in Upper Bangor lasting around half an hour.
Police warned members of the public to avoid the area while rival fans were dispersed.
Superintendent Richie Green said: “Whilst both sets of fans were being separated by police, a small number of individuals broke through a police cordon and a disturbance ensued. Officers quickly brought the disorder under control, although an officer was injured and taken to hospital.
“It is a shame that a small number were intent on causing problems, despite police presence.
“As always, the vast majority of those attending are law abiding football fans and I’m appreciative of their patience whilst the policing operation was in place.”
Police hunting those involved in the violence have asked for video footage to help them identify those responsible. They are looking for video from mobile phones or car dash cams.
Detective Inspector Andrew Gibson said: “Thankfully, the officer injured during the incident has since been discharged from hospital.”
The highly anticipated Welsh Cup clash drew more than 2,500 fans to Nantporth.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact North Wales Police on 101, quoting 19100027984.