Dispersal order in Wolverhampton city centre ahead of Wolves v West Brom | OneFootball

Extra policing powers will be in place across Wolverhampton as thousands of supporters head to the Black Country derby between Wolves and West Bromwich Albion at Molineux.

According to ExpressAndStar.com, West Midlands Police will impose a dispersal order across the city centre and surrounding areas, in force from eight am on Saturday, September 20, for 24 hours.

Under these powers, officers can direct people to leave a designated zone if they believe their presence could contribute to anti-social behaviour, harassment, disorder or crime. Anyone told to leave who then returns could be arrested.

The force said the measures follow months of planning with partner organisations, with the priority of getting supporters to and from the city safely. A significant policing presence is planned, including the mounted unit and drones.

Officers will work with British Transport Police, Transport for West Midlands and West Midlands Metro, and rail and tram services are expected to be particularly busy as fans travel.

Superintendent Tim Robinson, who is overseeing the operation, described the derby as an historic and iconic fixture and said both sets of fans are expected to back their teams passionately, while warning police would act against behaviour that causes fear, harm or disorder. He said the measure will help officers take swift action against anybody or groups arriving in Wolverhampton intent on causing trouble. Those involved in disorder could face arrest, a criminal record and a football banning order, and the force said it wants law-abiding supporters to enjoy the occasion with the focus on the pitch.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com

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