Met police officer 'hit with glass bottle' during chaos after Morocco World Cup exit
Four people were arrested at the scene of a busy London street as World Cup defeat for Morocco led to carnage with fireworks lit and police armed in riot gear
A police office was hit with a glass bottle and taken to hospital after chaos erupted on the streets in London following Morocco's World Cup exit.
Morocco lost their quarter final versus one of the tournament's hopefuls France 2-0 on Thursday evening.
Crowds gathered on the iconic Edgware Road in northwest London as shocking scenes appeared to unravel.
Metropolitan Police rushed to the scene as groups threw bottles and set off fireworks.
Footage circulating on social media shows clashes occurring between fans, with a huge emergency service presence at the scene.
Videos from half time already illustrated carnage on the streets, as Londoners lit fireworks, causing swarms of people to run through the street.
Fans were also seen holding up traffic, stood on top of bannisters and waving Morocco flags.
Video also shows lines of Metropolitan Police officers on the road, in riot gear, with shields, attempting to disperse the crowds.
Four people have been arrested for violent disorder.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: “One officer has been injured, and four people have been arrested following disorder in Edgware Road.
“Officers were initially called after a group of people congregated in the road and blocked traffic. The incident then escalated with the group throwing bottles and setting off fireworks. As a result, further officers were deployed to the area.
“One officer was taken to hospital for head injuries, it is believed he had been hit by a glass bottle. No other injuries were reported. Officers remained in the area and made four arrests for violent disorder, with the group dispersing and the road re-opened from around 1am.
“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.”
