Additional policing powers granted to officers ahead of Eastleigh v Aldershot match

Ahead of this weekend’s football match between Eastleigh and Aldershot, officers have been granted additional powers.

The purpose of these powers is to help keep spectators and the public safe before, during and after the FA Trophy game at Silverlake Stadium.

A dispersal order will be in force for a period of 26 hours, starting at 10am on Saturday 13 December, and will remain active until midday on Sunday 14 December.

Dispersal orders allow us to deal more effectively with any issues that could impact the safety of those attending the game, and give our officers the power to order a person to leave an area with no return within a specified time period.

If a person fails to comply with this order, the area for which is shown in the map, they can then be arrested.

Between 9am and 9pm on Saturday 13 December, a Section. 60AA order will also be in place, covering the same area.

This order gives officers the power to require a person to remove any items being used to conceal their identity, such as masks and face coverings.

Any failure to comply can result in the person being arrested. Officers will also have the power to seize any item they believe could be used as a face covering.

The above orders follow information received concerning the potential for youth-related violence among some of those attending the match.
The additional powers are under Section. 60AA of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 and Section 34 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act.

Chief Inspector Hayley O’Grady said: “Anyone thinking of attending Saturday’s match to cause trouble should think again and stay away, including those who have suspensions from both clubs.

“While we hope our officers will not need to use any of these additional powers, and that everyone attending the match enjoys the football in an orderly manner, we will take swift and robust action where necessary.

“Officers will be patrolling the area around the ground and town centre throughout the duration of the orders to ensure the safety of all football fans and local residents, as well as local businesses.

Directly addressing the community, Chief Inspector O’Grady, said: “I know that the implementation of these powers may cause some concern, but please be assured that we have put them in place for valid reasons and to ensure the safety of all.

“We know some people think telling you about the Section. 60AA inhibits our ability to catch those responsible. However, it is just as important that we prevent incidents of serious violence occurring.

“We will deal with those offenders, but we also want to prevent them from committing offences in the first place.

“If you have any concerns at all, please speak to our officers on patrol who will be more than happy to help you."

To away fans attending the game, please note that The Station public house, on High Street, will be welcoming visiting supporters.