Police issue update on number of arrests as Wolves and West Brom derby passes without major incident

Five people were arrested as the Black Country derby between Wolves and West Brom passed without major incident, police have confirmed.

West Midlands Police maintained a highly visible presence in and around Molineux and Wolverhampton city centre on Sunday afternoon (September 20) as thousands of supporters descended on the city for the historic local rivalry.

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 just hours after it was unveiled.

A 52-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of a public order offence following reports of disorder in the city centre after last month's Wolves match against Stoke City at Molineux.

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

All five remained in police custody as investigations continued.

Despite the arrests, police said the derby had passed without major incident, with officers deployed across the city as part of an extensive policing operation.

Superintendent Tim Robinson, who oversaw the operation, praised supporters for embracing the occasion in the right spirit.

He said: "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.

"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."