West Ham United have entered the relegation battle after drawing against Brighton this past weekend in the Premier League. But right now, that’s not even their major concern.
The Hammers drew the match 3-3 and during the game reports of homophobic abuses were registered and since then two people have been arrested related to the incident.
In a statement, the club said: “West Ham United is disgusted to hear of alleged homophobic incidents at the game against Brighton & Hove Albion.
The matter is now with the police but anyone found guilty of acting in a discriminatory manner will be banned for life from London Stadium and from travelling with the club.
“The club is unequivocal in its stance – we have a zero-tolerance approach to any form of discrimination. Equality and diversity is at the heart of the football club and we are committed to continue ensuring that everyone who enters London Stadium is free to enjoy watching their team play football in an inclusive environment.”
And now in a bid to take the next step of action, the Metropolitan Police is appealing for witnesses and people with video footages to come forward.
Inspector Matt Ashmead of the Met’s public order investigation team said as quoted by The Independent: “We take allegations such as these extremely seriously and will act accordingly to any information brought to our attention. We work in partnership with the club and the stadium safety team to identify those who commit hate crime at football and we will take robust action against them.
“With the assistance of law-abiding fans this weekend we were able to identify and arrest two individuals who were obtusely shouting homophobic abuse towards other supporters during this game. We welcome any further information or footage that would supply further evidence, or identify other offenders.
“Behaviour like this is completely unacceptable and perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions, so that the majority of law-abiding fans can enjoy a football game without the minority ruining their experience.
“If you have any information or footage to support our investigation please call us on 020 8246 9386 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
This is not the first time that a London club has been caught in the racism and homophobic battle and just like the other clubs they have nothing more to offer than a statement of apology and a proposed life ban for the culprits.
