Dispersal order issued for all of Portsea Island to "ensure public safety" as Portsmouth host Milwall at Fratton Park
A dispersal order will be in place for the whole of Portsea Island tomorrow as Pompey face Millwall at Fratton Park (3pm kick-off), with the police saying: “we are prepared to act”.
The order will be in force for 13 hours, starting at 10am on Saturday, November 22, and ending at 11pm, with police advising it will help them ensure public safety.
Officers will be patrolling the area throughout the day and will have the power to order a person to leave the area and not return while the order is in place. Anyone who refuses to comply will be committing a criminal offence and are liable to arrest, the police have said.
Chief Inspector Stuart Ratcliffe said: “We want fans to come to the game and enjoy the experience in a safe and welcoming environment.
“The dispersal order allows us to respond swiftly and decisively to anyone seeking to cause disruption. We hope this sends a clear message: we are prepared to act to ensure the safety of all.
“If you see our officers in the area, please don’t hesitate to speak with them, they’re there to support you and address any concerns you may have."
Millwall have played at Fratton Park once this year already, with a Championship game in January passing without major incident. However, the fixture was a rearranged match after a power cut forced the abandonment of the original game last November.
Following the abandonment there were reports of a minority of fans fighting from both sides. The fixture is treated as high risk by the police.
A Hampshire & Isle of Wight spokesperson said: “To ensure public safety during the upcoming football match between Portsmouth FC and Millwall FC on Saturday, 22 November, a dispersal order will be implemented in Portsmouth as part of our policing operation.
“Under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, the order will be in force for a period of 13 hours. Dispersal orders allow us to deal with any issues that could impact the safety of those attending the game more effectively and gives our officers the power to order a person to leave the area with no return within a specified time period.
“Officers will be patrolling the area throughout the duration of the order and will use these powers, where necessary, to prevent disruption and ensure the safety of fans, local residents and businesses.
“Those who refuse to comply with the order are committing a criminal offence and are liable for arrest.”
Pompey fans have been asked to note that there might be some temporary restrictions in place around Milton Lane and Specks Lane prior to the Fratton Park game, depending on crowd movement.
Following the final whistle, there are also some diversions in place immediately around the stadium, with Specks Lane not accessible for home fans.
For your next Pompey read: Big calls and big changes: Jordan Cross' predicted Portsmouth line-up for Millwall clash