A police officer was knocked unconscious after being struck by a glass bottle thrown during violent clashes on Edgware Road, as hundreds of Morocco supporters rioted following their team's 2-0 World Cup quarter-final defeat to France.
Footage from the scene showed missiles and fireworks being launched at Metropolitan Police officers in riot gear, who formed a line across the road in an attempt to restore order. The disorder began when a group of people congregated on the street and blocked traffic, the Met said, before escalating into bottle-throwing and fireworks being set off. One officer was hit by a glass bottle and taken to hospital with head injuries; he has since been released.
“A police officer was knocked unconscious and four arrested after Morocco fans rioted on Edgware Road.”
“One officer has been injured, and four people have been arrested following disorder in Edgware Road,” a Metropolitan Police spokesperson said. “We will not tolerate such disorder on our streets, or attacks on our officers. A police presence will remain in the area overnight and we will be reviewing CCTV and video footage circulating on social media to ensure all those responsible are brought to justice.”
Deputy Commissioner Matt Jukes described the rioting as “very serious” and said police would be circulating footage as they “go after those who haven’t yet been arrested and need to be.” On the injured officer, he added: “I’m really pleased to know they’re doing well. Be catching up with them later.”
During the unrest, crowds were heard chanting the word “w*” repeatedly at police, who then charged to disperse them. Bystanders screamed as bangs went off, and a person filming was heard saying: “They need to get the ambulance right now.” Dozens of people were seen wearing red Morocco shirts as France secured victory with second-half goals from Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele.
The road was reopened around 01:00hrs after the group dispersed. Police said no other injuries were reported. The Met confirmed four arrests for violent disorder and vowed to pursue further suspects using social media footage.