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Eight people have been arrested in a series of early morning raids across Bristol, targeting a group of Bristol City fans allegedly involved in trouble at a match against Millwall last season.

Avon and Somerset police were joined by Metropolitan Police detectives in carrying out the raids, which followed a public appeal earlier this month.

Police released CCTV images taken from the area around Millwall’s New Den stadium in south east London, and what appeared to be from police body-worn cameras, and a number of people handed themselves in to police here in Bristol.

The operation this morning picked up another eight people - aged between 22 and 54 and at addresses across Bristol - and a ninth man handed himself in to police.

Police were unable to find a tenth man - and re-issued the appeal for him to come forward, or for more information about him.

(Image: bristol Post)

The police operation relates to a clash between Bristol City fans and Millwall fans at a pub in Bermondsey before the Championship match in London on April 7 this year.

Police said several people were injured in the altercation, and the arrests relate to ‘unacceptable behaviour’ outside the pub.

“Today’s actions are the culmination of hard work carried out by our football unit,” said Insp Rob Millican, from Avon and Somerset police.It foll

“Our officers were able to identify a number of offenders from CCTV footage and put together arrest packages as a result.

“Our message is clear – any football-related disorder carried out by local residents will not be tolerated even if those offences are committed outside our force area.

“We will work with our partners across the country to ensure those involved are identified, arrested and dealt with robustly.

“This incident was wholly unacceptable and was committed by those who use football as an excuse to carry out violence and disorder,” he added.

(Image: Jennie Banks)

“We will now put these people before the courts. Successful convictions should result in football banning orders which will mean they will no longer be able to attend games or follow their national side abroad,” he said.

“And ahead of the new season, we urge all fans to enjoy themselves but we will not tolerate poor behaviour and any form of football related disorder or violence,” he added.

There are currently 60 banning orders affecting football fans in the Avon and Somerset area, mainly in Bristol, and covering fans of both Bristol City, Bristol Rovers and other clubs.

Those 60 people had to give up their passports during the World Cup in Russia this summer, and are subject to other restrictions more generally.

A Bristol City club spokesman said: "Bristol City Football Club is assisting the police with the ongoing investigation. The club will impose Ashton Gate banning orders on those arrested, pending the outcome of their individual court appearances at a later date.”