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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Jenny Kirkham

Group snort white powder off police hat as officers release images over Pier Head chaos

A group of men snorted a white powder off a police officer's hat during chaos and disorder which broke out at the Pier Head on Friday.

Detectives are continuing to investigate a number of violent and criminal incidents that occurred after thousands of people gathered on Liverpool's waterfront to celebrate Liverpool FC winning the Premier League.

Late in the night, a number of fires were set as police officers were attacked while trying to break up the crowds.

Merseyside Police are still looking into these incidents, as well as a number of drug related offences that were also reported.

As a result, officers have issued images of a number of men they believe could help with their enquiries.

The men in the pictures, and anyone who knows them, are being urged to come forward to police as soon as possible.

The appeal from police comes after a video, believed to have been captured at the Pier Head during the disorder, was widely shared on social media last weekend.

WARNING: Video shows apparent drug misuse

Men snort white powder from top of police officers hat amid Pier Head disorder

It shows a group of men standing around a police officer's hat before they each take it in turns to snort a white powder from the top of it.

A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said: "Detectives investigating incidents during a mass gathering in Liverpool City Centre last weekend are issuing images of four men who may have information to assist our enquiries.

"On Friday 26 June, several thousand people attended the Pier Head, and a number of criminal offences were reported, including drug offences.

"An extensive investigation is ongoing and we’d urge those pictured, or anyone who recognises them, to come forward at the earliest opportunity.

Detective Chief Inspector Cheryl Rhodes said: “There have been numerous arrests made since last weekend, but I want to assure people that our detailed investigations continue into some of the irresponsible and criminal behaviour that we saw in Liverpool City Centre.

"We know the communities of Merseyside have come together to condemn these scenes and we would ask for more assistance in finding those responsible.

“Such gatherings put unnecessary strain on all of the emergency services at this time, and put the safety of those attending at risk.

"They also bring about the potential for lockdown measures to be reversed in certain areas, which would affect all of us who have shown patience and understanding during this pandemic.

“We will continue to review all relevant CCTV and Body Worn Camera footage and issue images through the media and social media.

"You can expect to see more images issued in the coming weeks, as we thoroughly pursue those involved.

"I would urge anyone who has any information about those involved to contact us, so we can identify those responsible and put them before the courts.

“The time for celebrations will come when it is safe to do so, and in the meantime we’d urge people to remember the values of this city – pride, togetherness and integrity.”

You can provide information directly to Merseyside Police via their dedicated email address Operation.Precinct@merseyside.police.uk

You can also send any images and video via: https://unitedkingdom1cpp-portal.digital-policing.co.uk/merseyside/appeal/20000379360

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