National Chair John Apter has commented on the disgraceful scenes from Old Trafford this afternoon where Greater Manchester Police officers came under attack from protestors.
Bottles and barriers were thrown and one officer who was attacked with a bottle sustained a significant slash wound to his face, requiring emergency hospital treatment.
John said: “Yet again we’ve seen a so-called peaceful protest turn to violence with that aimed at my colleagues. Officers were injured and required hospital treatment. This is completely unacceptable.
"I send my best wishes to those officers and I call on the football pundits, clubs and players who are supporting these protests to condemn the violence in the strongest possible terms.”
Stu Berry, Chairman of Greater Manchester Police Federation, commented that his colleagues are not "punchbags for people protesting" a cause.
He added: "At the end of their shifts, hard-working police officers should be able to go home to their families in one piece. Not be rushed to hospital. We will be seeking a review of today’s operational risk assessment and public order resources on behalf of our members.
“Our thoughts are with our injured officers this evening and we hope the media can give our members the recognition they deserve.”
