Police investigate ‘abhorrent’ racist abuse of playersImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Wesley Fofana (left) and Hannibal Mejbri (right) both shared racist messages they received on social media Published53 minutes agoPolice have validated they are investigating after four Premier League players were targeted by online racial abuse at the weekend.Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri and Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana both received racist abuse on Instagram after Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge.
On Sunday, Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare and Sunderland winger Romaine Mundle were also sent racist abuse on social media.
The UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU) mentioned on Monday it “has launched a number of investigations” after receiving four separate reports of online racial abuse.
“There is absolutely no place for racial abuse, either online or in person, and anyone who believes they can hide behind their keyboards should think again,” mentioned chief constable Mark Roberts, who is the head of the UKFPU.
“The UKFPU condemns this abhorrent behaviour and we will ensure that, through our dedicated team of officers, we do everything possible to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s official spokesman also described the abuse as “abhorrent”, adding: “The Prime Minister has supported footballers before who have had the courage to come forward and call out discrimination and racism and this is no different.
“Premier League clubs have mentioned they want to work with social media sites, including Meta, the Premier League and the police to identify those responsible.
“And Meta has mentioned that it will continue to work to protect people from abuse. Ministers will be holding them to account to ensure it happens.”
