City of London Police have introduced a second dispersal zone ahead of Saturday's Millwall versus West Ham United match, extending police powers to order individuals out of the Square Mile and several bridges across the Thames. The new Section 35 order, effective from 8am to 8pm on match day, complements an existing Metropolitan Police dispersal zone already in place around The Den in Bermondsey.
Two separate dispersal orders in force
The Metropolitan Police announced days before the game that a Section 35 dispersal order would cover the ground and surrounding areas. Under this order, officers can instruct anyone in a designated public place to leave, with penalties for non-compliance. The Met stated: "As with any fixture, the Sporting Events Act 1985 is in place, which means entering or attempting to enter a ground while intoxicated is strictly prohibited. A Section 35 dispersal order will also be in place, allowing officers to remove anyone causing disorder."
Now, City of London Police have issued their own Section 35 order. A spokesperson for City of London Police said: "To assist the policing operation around the Millwall v West Ham match, from 8am today, we’re putting a S35 order in place. If someone is contributing to crime, disorder or anti-social behaviour, they can be told to leave and not return for a specified period. It lasts until 8pm."
First meeting in 14 years
Saturday's fixture at The Den kicks off at 12:30pm and marks the first competitive meeting between the two east London clubs since 2012. It is also the 100th competitive match between the rivals, adding historical significance to the derby.
West Ham enter the match as favourites. Relegated from the Premier League last season, the Hammers currently top the Championship table. Millwall, who lost in the play-off semi-finals last season, sit in twelfth position after seven matches.
The dual dispersal orders reflect heightened security measures for a fixture with a long history of tension between fan bases. Police have encouraged supporters to arrive early and cooperate with officers enforcing the orders.
