Wolves-West Brom derby ends peacefully as police reveal number of arrests

Police have revealed that five people were arrested during the Black Country derby between Wolves and West Brom, although the fiercely anticipated clash passed without any major incident.

West Midlands Police mounted a significant operation around Molineux and Wolverhampton city centre on Sunday as thousands of supporters arrived for one of English football’s biggest local rivalries. Officers had additional powers in place and deployed specialist resources as part of the operation.

Among those arrested was an 18-year-old man who was detained on suspicion of criminal damage after Wolves’ new 150th anniversary mural was vandalised shortly before the derby. Police had confirmed his arrest earlier on Sunday.

Four other males, aged between 16 and 63, were also arrested on suspicion of offences including sexual assault and racially aggravated public order offences.

All five remained in police custody as enquiries continued.

Despite the arrests, police said the derby itself passed without major incident, with a highly visible presence maintained around the stadium and across the city throughout the day.

Superintendent Tim Robinson, who oversaw the operation, praised supporters for helping make the occasion a safe one.

“With such passion and excitement associated with this historic local derby, it was great to see that supporters embraced the great occasion in the right way,” he said.

“We worked extensively with our partners ahead of the match, and on the day, to ensure the fans at the stadium and in the city have been able to enjoy the day safely.”

The extensive police operation came after authorities had warned that disorder would not be tolerated, with dispersal powers introduced across Wolverhampton ahead of the fixture.