Arsenal fans organise protest against 'rapists' prior to West Ham defeat

Arsenal fans were seen protesting against 'rapists' and 'sexual violence' prior to their match against West Ham on Saturday afternoon.

The Gunners suffered a shock defeat by the Hammers after Jarrod Bowen's first-half strike sealed three points for Graham Potter's side at the Emirates.

While Bowen's goal stole the headlines, there was also plenty of discussion about the fan protest orchestrated outside the stadium prior to kick-off.

The Arsenal Supporters Against Sexual Violence were seen holding a sign which read: 'Love Arsenal, Hate Rapists' outside the Emirates.

The supporters group were then seen handing out leaflets which further outlined their motives.

One page read: 'Arsenal Supporters Against Sexual Violence are an unofficial supporters group committed to calling for accountability on the Premier League and its clubs when it comes to addressing sexual violence in the sport.

'To date, the Premier League and member cubs have failed in their duty to safeguard members of the public, fans and staff in this regard.

'On November 14th 2024, we penned an open letter, since signed by over 8,000 people, calling on the Club too:

'Provide clear communication to supporters, the Premier league and victims. Provide a genuine promise to suspend any individual under investigation for criminal offences. Offer tangible support for victims and their families'.

Last month, the Metropolitan Police handed a file of evidence to prosecutors over a Premier League footballer accused of rape.

Officials from the Crown Prosecution Service will now examine the dossier before deciding whether to press charges, in a development that will cause serious concerns at his club.

The player, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is in his 30s. He has continued to play for his side despite being initially arrested in July 2022.

He was subsequently further arrested on suspicion of two other rapes, alleged to have taken place against a different woman in April and June 2021.

No further action was taken with regards to those allegations because an element of legislation that would have been needed to bring forward a prosecution had not yet come into effect.

In February 2023, the footballer, a prominent international, was also interviewed under caution in relation to an alleged sexual offence relating to a third potential victim.

A Met Police spokesperson said: ‘Met officers are investigating following a number of reports of alleged sexual offences between 2021 and 2023.

‘A full file has been passed to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and detectives continue to work with prosecutors.

‘Those who have come forward to police continue to receive support from Met officers.’The player’s club are yet to comment on the matter.