Arrest made for ‘tragedy chanting’ during Liverpool vs. Manchester United FA Cup match

Following an incident of inappropriate chanting during the FA Cup quarter-final match between Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday, March 17, police have made at least one arrest. The chants were related to the Hillsborough disaster, a tragic event in 1989 where 97 Liverpool fans died at an FA Cup semi-final at Hillsborough Stadium.

Reports indicate that a group of United fans in the Stretford End section of the stadium were heard making “Murderers” and “Always the victims” chants, which were picked up by the broadcast audience.

The Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have confirmed the arrest of an individual and announced that an investigation is in progress. The police have taken a strong stance against such “tragedy chanting,” emphasizing that while fan banter is often part of the game, the behavior witnessed overstepped the bounds of decency.

The English Football Association (FA) has expressed its intention to work with the police to eliminate such behavior, highlighting the negative impact it can have on individuals and communities involved in football.

The UK government and legal framework, including the Public Order Act of 1986, provide for the prosecution of individuals engaging in chants or actions that involve tragedies and death related to football matches.

This incident is part of a series of similar occurrences. Last year, a Manchester United fan faced charges for wearing a shirt mocking the Hillsborough victims. More recently, a Manchester City supporter was arrested for making aeroplane gestures referring to the Munich air disaster during a match, an act that was widely condemned on social media.

These actions have spurred calls from various quarters for stringent measures to address and prevent offensive behavior at football events.