Four individuals were arrested for violent disorder and a police officer sustained head injuries during a disturbance on Edgware Road in central London following France's 2-0 World Cup quarter-final victory over Morocco. The incident escalated when a gathering that had blocked traffic began throwing bottles and setting off fireworks, according to the Metropolitan Police.
The injured officer was taken to the hospital after reportedly being struck by a glass bottle. Westminster City Council leader Paul Swaddle denounced the behavior, urging World Cup fans to demonstrate respect throughout the tournament.
Social media footage appeared to show riot police responding to the scene amid a barrage of fireworks. The Metropolitan Police stated that no other injuries were reported and the group dispersed by approximately 1:00 AM BST, with the road subsequently reopening. "We will not tolerate such disorder on our streets, or attacks on our officers," a police spokesperson said. Authorities are reviewing CCTV and social media footage to identify and apprehend all responsible parties.