Police issue pyrotechnic warning ahead of crucial Wales play-off

UK

Police in Wales have issued a warning to fans not to bring pyrotechnic devices to Cardiff City Stadium ahead of tonight’s crucial European Championship play-off.

The Dragons will face Poland for a place at the Euros in Germany this summer.

If successful, Wales will join England and Scotland , who have already qualified for the tournament.

South Wales Police said it had a “policing plan” in place for the play-off final.

Seven Poland fans were arrested following a Nations League game between the two countries in Cardiff 18 months ago.

Four of them were arrested on suspicion of possessing pyrotechnics.

Image:
Flares burn during the UEFA Nations League match between Wales and Poland at Cardiff City Stadium in September 2022. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

Superintendent Steve Rees said the force works “closely” with Cardiff City Stadium staff and said fans should follow advice from the Football Association of Wales (FAW).

“Being in possession of a pyrotechnic device at a football match, or attempting to bring one into a football stadium, is a criminal offence, and anyone found guilty of committing such an offence faces arrest and a football banning order,” he added.

Read more from Sky News:
Kilt-wearing Scotsman to walk 1,000 miles to Germany for Euros
England fans divided over controversial kit change

Follow Sky News on WhatsApp

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Tap here

A spokesperson for the FAW said anyone in possession of a pyrotechnic device at a football match, or attempting to bring one into the stadium, also faces a Wales game ban.

“There is no safe use of pyrotechnics in spectator areas at football events with their use having many health risks and dangers such as loss of sight, limb or digit removal due to their explosive power,” a spokesperson added.

Articles You May Like

Kia EV9, Genesis EV prices cut with generous $7,500 discount offer
Oil prices pull back as U.S. economic growth disappoints
Microsoft says cloud AI demand is exceeding supply even after 79% surge in capital spending
Ford drops its cheapest 2024 F-150 Lightning trim for customer orders
Teachers injured in school stabbing incident ‘cannot comprehend’ what happened