No flares, bombs, violence at soccer: cops
AAP June 18, 2013, 10:17 am
Police have warned against violence at the World Cup qualifier between the Socceroos and Iraq.
Flares, smoke bombs and violent behaviour at Tuesday's World Cup soccer qualifier against Iraq in Sydney will be stamped out by a heavy police presence.
The make-or-break match on Tuesday evening at ANZ stadium has prompted police to issue a warning to head off acts of belligerence.
Large numbers of police will be on patrol inside and outside the stadium, throughout Olympic Park and on public transport.
The high-visibility policing operation will include the Public Order and Riot Squad, the Dog Unit and mounted policed.
"We are focusing on flares and smoke bombs before and during the event and anyone who discharges any device can expect to be charged, removed and issued with a banning notice by the FFA (Football Federation Australia)," Superintendent Darren Bennett said.
"We will have the resources to clamp down on any violent or disruptive behaviour and we encourage everyone to act in accordance with the sportsmanship that the match deserves."
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