In anticipation of the highly-awaited football clash between Brighton & Hove Albion FC (BHAFC) and AS Roma, throngs of eager fans streamed towards the Amex Stadium in Brighton, marking a vibrant evening of Football.
After unsettling events last week in Italy, where two Brighton fans suffered robbery and stab wounds, security measures were significantly heightened. A collaborative effort from the British Transport Police (BTP), alongside officers from Sussex, Kent, and Surrey, ensured meticulous coordination for the fans’ safe passage to tonight’s match.
Roma supporters gathered on Brighton’s iconic seafront before being escorted through the city streets by police, in a strategic move to manage the crowds and prevent any possible altercations. The procession wound its way to the station’s back entrance, deliberately steering clear of the Brighton fans to avoid any direct confrontations.
In a separate measure, Brighton supporters were momentarily held back, then accompanied on a train to the stadium, flanked by officers to oversee their journey and ensure peace.
Sussex Police said “Sussex Police is working in partnership with Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club for the club’s historic first season playing European football,”
“We also work alongside AS Roma, UEFA, and other emergency services and partner agencies to assesses the appropriate policing response to support the club.
“This includes ensuring there is sufficient support in place for fans visiting the city for the first time, and to make sure that everyone attending the match has a safe and enjoyable experience.
“Security within the ground remains the responsibility of the club, supported by us.”
