Louise (Admin)
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Premier League - First arrests in racist chant investigationPolice have made their first arrests in an investigation into racist and homophobic chanting during Portsmouth's match against Tottenham Hotspur.
A 28-year-old man from Ringwood, Hampshire and a 38-year-old man from Wokingham, Berkshire were brought in for questioning just hours after an appeal was launched to track down people caught on camera directing abuse at Portsmouth defender and former Spurs captain Sol Campbell during the Premier League match at Fratton Park on September 28.
Hampshire Constabulary said they have received "a steady stream of information and names", but are still urging members of the public to contact them if they can help identify any of the 16 suspects identified in images released in the media.
Superintendent Neil Sherrington said when the images were released: "As part of our investigation into indecent chanting at Fratton Park, we have identified 16 people we would like to speak to.
"Our inquiry is aimed at identifying and putting before the court those individuals who engaged in unacceptable behaviour at this public event.
"Their abuse caused distress to some supporters and was targeted at an individual.
"We want to send a clear message that abuse of this kind will not be tolerated and that we are taking robust action.
"I'd urge anyone who recognises these people to contact us as soon as possible."
The offence of indecent or racist chanting at a designated football match under the Football Offences Act 1991 can be punished by a fine of up to £1,000 and can also lead to a football banning order.
Tottenham have lent their full backing to the investigation, and the club's safety officer Sue Tilling said: "The club does not tolerate any form of abusive or discriminatory chanting and we would ask fans with any information to please come forward and assist the police with their investigation into this matter.
"In order to ensure that matchdays are enjoyable for everyone we shall not hesitate to ban, indefinitely, supporters whose behaviour is proven to be unacceptable."
Campbell has been targeted by some Spurs supporters since he left White Hart Lane for arch-rivals Arsenal in 2001.
In October, Spurs vowed to ban for life any fan found guilty of racist of homophobic behaviour.
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Julie C
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Glad as its not right 
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Whojamaflip
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As a Spurs fan i condemn those disgusting chants, and they were nothing to do with football...just ignorant *****
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Louise (Admin)
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I agree Whojamaflip, They are not 'Fans' of the sport at all.
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