Football yobs in Manchester who attacked a police car after England’s semi-final Euro 2024 win over the Netherlands on Wednesday night are being hunted.
GMP said one – described as a ‘shirtless male’ – ran at the liveried car then punched through the rear window.
Another was seen kicking the back of the car. Now police have released CCTV images of two men they want to speak with in connection with the criminal damage, which took a police car off the roads.
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Greater Manchester Police said it happened after a crowd of fans blocked a road outside Manchester Arena, which had shown the match, and began to climb onto the bonnets and roofs of vehicles belonging to members of the public.
Police were called to Trinity Way in the city centre, outside the AO Arena, at 10.29pm on Wednesday after England’s last-gasp 2-1 win.
A force spokesperson said: “Whilst travelling along Trinity Way, a crowd of fans blocked the road, surrounding members of the public’s cars, climbing on bonnets and roofs.
“Officers tried to disperse the crowds, who then surrounded the police vehicle banging on the windows.
“As officers cleared the group of fans, a shirtless male ran at the vehicle and punched the rear window, smashing it and causing damage to the rear light cluster. Another male was seen kicking at the rear of the vehicle. Officers are now appealing for anyone who may recognise the two men pictured to come forward and assist our investigation.”
Pc Reynolds, from GMP’s Road Policing Unit, said: “Although many fans who attended the football screening had a good time, unfortunately, a very small minority have not attended with the same intentions and damaged a police vehicle.
“Those responsible have shown a blatant disregard towards our communities and our ability to service emergency calls. Thankfully, no officers or members of the public were injured during this incident.”
Anyone with information can call police on 101 quoting the log number 3657 of 10/07/2024 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.