Police pleased with safe end to FIFA U-20 World Cup

"Police pleased with safe and successful end to FIFA U-20 World Cup"

Police say the positive atmosphere and good crowd behavior at tonight's FIFA U-20 World Cup 2015 Final at North Harbour Stadium concludes a safe, secure and successful tournament for New Zealand.

With only three arrests over the entire three-week, 52-match tournament, held in seven different centres, Police are extremely pleased with the level of crowd behaviour, including during tonight's exciting final won by Serbia 2-1 over Brazil in extra time.

No arrests were made during the match.

"The FIFA U-20 World Cup 2015 has been a great opportunity to showcase New Zealand, with tonight’s final marked by a positive and family-friendly atmosphere that has been a feature throughout the tournament,” says Superintendent Sandra Manderson, National Commander of Police’s Operation.

“It was a great match on the field, the crowd was positive and focussed on enjoying the football, which created an excellent atmosphere,” says Superintendent Manderson.

"Police at the ground and around the area have so far reported no significant issues requiring Police assistance and we hope this continues into the night.

Police will however continue to maintain a highly visible presence, and we encourage those heading out afterwards to keep safe and not overdo their celebrations.”

Superintendent Manderson says it’s a pleasing end to more than two years worth of planning by Police, in conjunction with its partner agencies.

“Due to the work of all the agencies involved, as far as Police is concerned, the event has been a success both on and off the field.

“Thanks go to all of the Police staff involved, who have enjoyed being part of FIFA U20 World Cup.

From a Police perspective, the event has run very smoothly and is a credit to all the Police Districts which hosted matches, as well as our support staff and the tournament organisers.

“I also acknowledge the excellent work of our Police Team Liaison Officers who were attached to each of the 24 teams during the event and provided valuable support and assistance, as well as our forward commanders at each of the seven venues, whose experience has resulted in a smooth policing operation.

“Our staff on the ground have enjoyed mixing with the crowds of fans and families who have turned out in their thousands to enjoy the matches, and we thank all of those people who played their part to help ensure it was a safe, secure and fun event for everyone.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media