A significant public safety operation was in place this evening, Thursday, 16th July, in Derry/Londonderry ahead of the Derry City v CSKA Sofia UEFA Europa League fixture at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium.

Chief Inspector Graeme Craig said: "Disorder initially broke out between rival football supporters in the Bishop Street area prior to kick-off at around 6.45pm and, unfortunately, one of our officers was injured and required hospital treatment.

"During the second half of the fixture further disorder occurred between rival fans within the stadium, causing the match to be paused for approximately 14 minutes. At the request of Derry City Football Club, and in the interests of public safety, police officers were deployed inside the stadium to manage the situation and restore calm, meaning that the match could continue to its conclusion.

Chief Inspector Craig continued: “It is disappointing that an important and high-profile European sporting fixture should be disrupted in such a manner. I’m sure all right-thinking football supporters will join me in condemning such behaviour. Sport is such an integral part of our community and we have seen a vibrant and excited mood in the city throughout the day. Regrettably, this evening we have witnessed families and young children seeking refuge on the pitch because of the unacceptable and reckless behaviour of a small number of individuals.

"We would advise members of the public that there will be a continued police presence in the area tonight.

"We have also established a Public Order Enquiry Team to investigate tonight’s disturbances and we will be reviewing all available footage to identify and arrest those individuals involved.

"Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information can contact police using our witness appeal form at https://reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals, quoting reference 1502 of 16/07/26, or call us on 101.”

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/