Drones and pyrotechnic sniffer dogs set for Boro v Leeds game to combat potential 'disorder'

Thousands of footy fans are set to descend on Teesside on Monday as Boro take on Leeds at the Riverside Stadium.

A large police presence is set to be placed in the town centre as 32,000 fans pack into the ground during the large-scale event. Cleveland Police and partner agencies have been working closely with both football clubs to prepare for the clash - with support in place from the likes of Northumbria Police, British Transport Police, and Durham Police.

Trouble flaring up at Boro v Leeds games on Teesside has been well reported over the years, with skirmishes breaking out in the town centre back in 2019 seeing 12 people arrested. Cleveland Police say those causing trouble will be dealt with "robustly" - with CCTV, drones, and pyrotechnic detection dogs all set to be in use.

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This planning helps the force and its partners to "minimise disruption to members of the public and ensure that those attending the game can do so safely." Fans can expect a large presence of officers, who will engage with members of the public "to reassure our communities and support and direct fans arriving for the match and leaving after the game."

Also helping during the match will be volunteers from Cleveland Police’s Special Constabulary who will be deployed throughout the operation.

Match Commander Superintendent Darren Bainbridge said: “With around 32,000 people expected to attend the game, we know it will be a busy day in Middlesbrough and recognise the majority of supporters will come to the game to enjoy the match, watch their teams and behave in a responsible manner for which I’d like to thank them in advance.

“Football can generate strong emotions and a small minority of people will use this as an excuse to get involved in disorder and criminality. I would caution anyone who is intent on attending the fixture for these reasons that offences will be dealt with robustly.

"Club and Local CCTV will be utilised along with Police Drones and Football Officers to identify offenders, and pyrotechnic detection dogs are being deployed for those attempting to bring such items to the fixture. Any person who engages in these offences will be refused entry and may find themselves subject of a banning order and a criminal prosecution.

“Ultimately, we just want to make sure that everyone can attend safely, enjoy the game in a fun and friendly atmosphere and make it home safely afterwards. Our officers are there to ensure this is the case, so please do approach and engage with them if you require assistance or advice.”

Follow the force on Facebook and X, formerly Twitter, here for updates throughout the day. Anyone with information regarding disorder or criminality associated with football is asked to report this to 101 or call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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