Two West Ham fans arrested for alleged homophobic gestures

Two West Ham fans have been arrested after they allegedly made homophobic gestures at the London Stadium during the 3-3 draw against Brighton on Saturday.

The two men have since been released under investigation, and another man was arrested on suspicion of common assault, the Metropolitan Police said.

The Metropolitan Police are appealing for witnesses and any footage of the incident after "homophobic chanting was heard from a number of individuals during the match in the Sir Trevor Brooking Stand at the London Stadium".

The authority has urged anyone who saw the incident or who can provide officers with any evidence to come forward.

Inspector Matt Ashmead from the Met's Public Order Investigation Team said: "We work in partnership with the club and the stadium safety team to identify those who commit hate crime at football and we will take robust action against them.

"With the assistance of law-abiding fans this weekend we were able to identify and arrest two individuals who were obtusely shouting homophobic abuse towards other supporters during this game. We welcome any further information or footage that would supply further evidence, or identify other offenders.

"Behaviour like this is completely unacceptable and perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions, so that the majority of law-abiding fans can enjoy a football game without the minority ruining their experience."

A West Ham spokesperson said: "West Ham United is disgusted to hear of alleged homophobic incidents at the game against Brighton & Hove Albion.

"The matter is now with the police but anyone found guilty of acting in a discriminatory manner will be banned for life from London Stadium and from travelling with the club.

"The club is unequivocal in its stance - we have a zero-tolerance approach to any form of discrimination.

"Equality and diversity is at the heart of the football club and we are committed to continue ensuring that everyone who enters London Stadium is free to enjoy watching their team play football in an inclusive environment."

In December, West Ham said the club "in no way condones" any homophobic behaviour following reports of chanting during their game at Stamford Bridge on November 30.

Abusive incidents of an alleged homophobic nature have occurred on several occasions at Premier League and EFL grounds this season.

An internal club investigation found "no evidence" of homophobic chanting taking place during Millwall's clash with Reading on January 18, despite referee Keith Stroud halting the game at The Den for a brief time to address the issue during the first half.

One away fan and two home supporters were arrested following "unacceptable abuse" during Brighton's draw with Chelsea on New Year's Day at the Amex Stadium.

Bristol Rovers were fined £7,500 and ordered to implement an action plan after some of their supporters directed slurs at Brighton fans during a Carabao Cup game in August.