Millwall vs West Ham: Huge police presence at derby as officers get special stop and search powers to stop trouble

On September 19, West Ham United faced Millwall FC in a highly anticipated Championship match after a 14-year hiatus. To prevent potential violence, 400 police officers were deployed around South Bermondsey station, which was designated as the main entry point for away fans. False messages suggesting South Bermondsey would be closed were circulating online to divert fans and potentially stir trouble.

The Metropolitan Police enforced special measures including a Section 60 order allowing enhanced stop-and-search powers without reasonable suspicion, aimed at maintaining safety during the match. Both clubs advised supporters to use specific transport routes to keep rival fan groups apart. West Ham reiterated its commitment to zero-tolerance for discriminatory behavior and emphasized that fans would face serious consequences if they violated this policy.

Despite these precautions, there were six arrests reported by police before and after the game. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, with no immediate reports of on-field violence or major disruptions.