Section 60 stop and search police powers will be in operation between midday tomorrow, Thursday, November 6 and 3am on Friday, November 7
Police outside Villa Park(Image: WMP)
Extra police powers will be in place around Villa Park with over 700 officers part of a huge operation tomorrow night.
Section 60 stop and search powers will be used outside the stadium and the city centre between midday tomorrow, Thursday, November 6 and 3am on Friday, November 7.
Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv are due to play Aston Villa in the Europa League without an away fans at the ground due to safety fears. However, a number of protest groups will be outside the stadium on the day.
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In a statement, police said: “We will be using Section 60 powers in parts of #Birmingham tomorrow (6 Nov) as part of our operation to keep people safe.
“Tomorrow will see us mount a large policing operation, as Aston Villa take on Maccabi Tel Aviv at Villa Park.
“We will have more than 700 officers keeping the public safe and arresting anyone who engages in crime or disorder.
“Section 60 powers will be in place in the area on the map, from 12pm tomorrow (6 November) until 3am Friday (7 Nov).
“These powers allow us to stop and search people without the need to have reasonable grounds. This power is exercised to safeguard the community from this dangerous behaviour.
It comes as police plan a ring of steel around the ground, while fans should expect multiple ticket checks.
Aston Villa Police posted on X: “For @AVFCOfficial supporters attending the fixture on Thursday night, there will be multiple ticket checks on the approach to the stadium. Please be ready to present your match ticket. Allow extra time for entry into the stadium.”
Section 60 map in and around Villa Park and the city centre(Image: WMP)
Ch Supt Tom Joyce, said: “Our message to those from all communities in Birmingham is that we have listened and will continue to engage with you. We remain committed to maintaining the city’s reputation as a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
“Anyone who breaks the law will be dealt with directly, as will those who incite hate. We have been working closely with partners including Birmingham City Council, Aston Villa Football Club, our colleagues in other emergency services, as we put in place our significant policing operation.
“People can expect to see a large number of uniformed officers, as well as police horses, police dogs, our drone unit, road policing unit, protest liaison officers and others.
“People not attending the event should expect significant disruption to the roads in the area on the evening, and we’d urge people to avoid the area where possible.
“We know protests by different groups will take place on the day, and we have plans in place which balance the right to protest with our duty to protect all communities in Birmingham.
“We are experienced at policing high profile football matches and demonstrations, and for many weeks now, we have been working closely with different faith and local community groups to listen to their views and concerns.
“Our goal throughout planning for this match is to ensure people can enjoy the football fixture while we continue to keep everyone in Birmingham safe, facilitate peaceful protest and maintain the King’s peace.”