Don’t bank on Russian police for protection, football fans told

RUSSIAN police officers could turn a blind eye to crimes against British football fans during the World Cup, MPS have warned.

A report by the foreign affairs committee, published today, says fans risk being attacked as a result of “anti-british sentiment” because of the deterioration in relations between Russia and the UK since the Salisbury attack.

British police warn fans that displaying the St George’s flag in public could bring “increased attention and risk”, as would any “provocative actions”.

Up to 10,000 football supporters from Britain are expected to travel to Russia this summer.

Racist and homophobic intimidation, violence from hooligans and terrorist attacks are among the risks they face, the report says.

The committee reported concerns from Dr Andrew Foxall of the Henry Jackson Society, the think tank, that the Russian police may have a limited willingness to prevent “low-level crimes against UK nationals” in the wake of poor Uk-russia relations.

Tom Tugendhat, chairman of the committee, said: “Vague reassurances from Foreign Office ministers have not been enough to reassure us that UK nationals will be safe, regardless of their background or sexual orientation.”

In addition, the expulsion of British diplomats in March in the wake of the Salisbury attack may have dented the Foreign Office’s preparations, MPS warned. The expulsion included staff who had been preparing for the World Cup. “Mobile embassies” are planned in cities where England will play, but the report said “more must be done – in the short time available – to ensure fans are aware of the risks”.

The Foreign Office does not discourage football fans from travelling to Russia, although it warns in its official guidance: “Due to heightened political tensions between the UK and Russia, you should be aware of the possibility of anti-british sentiment or harassment at this time.

“If you’re currently in Russia or due to travel in the coming weeks, you’re advised to remain vigilant, avoid any protests or demonstrations and avoid commenting publicly on political developments.”

The World Cup kicks off next Thursday, June 14, with the host nation taking on Saudi Arabia in Moscow.

The England squad’s first game will be against Tunisia in Volgograd four days later.