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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Paul Britton

Police release 24 CCTV images of people wanted for questioning over chaos at Manchester City-Villa title-winning game

Police have released CCTV images of 24 people they want to speak with after 'disorder' at the Etihad Stadium during Manchester City's last game of the season. Greater Manchester Police said it included criminal damage and the use of pyrotechnics like flares.

The dramatic 3-2 win secured City a sixth Premier League title. The Blues were 2-0 down but a late strike from Ilkay Gundogan, his second of the match after Rodri's equaliser, sparked scenes of jubilation, together with a pitch invasion tainted by unsavoury scenes as Villa players attempted to leave the field.

City later said Aston Villa goalkeeper Robin Olsen was assaulted after the final whistle when fans entered the pitch.

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In a statement, GMP said offences committed by certain supporters 'put spectators' safety at risk', but no exact details were given. The force pointed to 'disorder by a select number of individuals from both clubs'.

Releasing 24 images of people wanted for questioning, the force said it was working closely with the club to 'identify the relevant individuals'.

In a statement, Greater Manchester Police said: "The disorder by a select number of individuals from both clubs during the final Premier League fixture of the 2021/22 season at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday 22 May 2022 included criminal damage and the use of pyrotechnics."

Detective Sergeant Nicholas Fernandes, of GMP's City of Manchester North division, said: "The offences committed by certain individuals during this fixture put spectators' safety at risk.

City fans on the pitch after the final whistle (PA)

"This will not be tolerated and we are proactively working with Manchester City FC to identify the relevant individuals.

"We have already charged two suspects in connection with this disorder relating to another incident, but our investigation is very much ongoing and, following extensive enquiries, we are now in a position to appeal to the public for help to identify these individuals who we want to speak to.

"Anyone who can help officers identify those in the images or with any other information is asked to submit details via the dedicated phone number on 0161 856 3907.

"Alternatively, details can be passed via our LiveChat function at www.gmp.police.uk or via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 using the term 'Operation Pendant'."

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