TWO West Ham fans have been arrested for allegedly making homophobic gestures towards Brighton supporters on Saturday.
The pair have been released under investigation but the Metropolitan Police confirmed their enquires will continue.
Two West Ham fans have been arrested for allegedly making homophobic gestures towards Brighton supporters on SaturdayCredit: Getty Images – Getty
A third supporter was arrested on suspicion of assault but it is not said to be linkedCredit: Rex Features
A third Hammers supporter was also arrested on suspicion of assault but it is not said to be linked.
Asked about the arrests, a Met Police spokesperson said: “Two male West Ham fans were arrested on suspicion of making homophobic gestures.
“One male (also a West Ham fan) was arrested on suspicion of common assault.
“They were taken to East London police stations where they were subsequently released under investigation.
“Enquiries continue.”
West Ham twice threw away a two-goal lead to draw 3-3 with the Seagulls on another disappointing afternoon for the relegation threatened side.
And this latest incident comes after a fan was banned for life earlier in the season when footage emerged of a father and son racially abusing away fans during the previous campaign.
The club acted quickly then and in response to Saturday’s disturbing news also took a strong stance.
In a club statement, West Ham said: “West Ham United is disgusted to hear of alleged homophobic incidents at the game against Brighton & Hove Albion.
“The matter is now with the police but anyone found guilty of acting in a discriminatory manner will be banned for life from London Stadium and from travelling with the club.
“The club is unequivocal in its stance – we have a zero-tolerance approach to any form of discrimination.
“Equality and diversity is at the heart of the football club and we are committed to continue ensuring that everyone who enters London Stadium is free to enjoy watching their team play football in an inclusive environment.”
It has been a busy week for West Ham after Sky Sports issued an apology to the club after they reportedly received a legal letter from the Hammers in relation to “factual inaccuracies” aired on their Sunday Supplement programme.
Some members of the journalist panel called the club a “shambles” and claimed “everyone has got their hands in the till”.
Co-owner David Gold also found himself in hot water this week after he liked tweets calling West Ham fans “morons” and “neanderthals”.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
