Premier League: Police investigating online racist abuse of four players

Police have confirmed they are investigating after four Premier League players were subjected to racist abuse online at the weekend.

Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejbri and Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana were both subjected to racist abuse on Instagram after Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge.

On Sunday, Wolves striker Tolu Arukudar and Sunderland winger Romaine Mundel were also subjected to abuse on social media.

The UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU) said on Monday it had “launched a number of investigations” after receiving four separate reports of racist abuse online.

Police Scotland said on Monday they were investigating after Rangers players Emmanuel Fernandes and Gede Gassama shared screenshots of racist abuse directed at them on their social media accounts after Sunday’s match against Livingston.

Chief Constable Mark Roberts, who is chairman of the UK Police Federation, said: “There is absolutely no place for racist abuse, either online or in person, and anyone who thinks they can hide behind their keyboards should think again.”

“The UKFPU condemns this abhorrent behavior and we will ensure that, through our dedicated team of officers, we do everything we can to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.”

Anti-discrimination group Kick It Out said reports of online abuse had reached record levels, increasing by a third compared to the same point last season.

UKFPU deputy director Mike Ankers told BBC Radio 5 Live that the police unit had seen an almost 115% increase in the number of reports.

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman, Sir Keir Starmer, also described the abuse as “abhorrent”, adding: “The Prime Minister has supported footballers before who have had the courage to come forward and denounce discrimination and racism, and this is no different.”

“Premier League clubs have said they want to work with social media sites, including Meta, the Premier League and the police to identify those responsible.

“Mita said she will continue to work to protect people from abuse. Ministers will hold them accountable to ensure this happens.”