The banner was made in protest against Newcastle United’s Saudi-led owners
Croydon Police have confirmed that no further action will be taken against Crystal Palace after fans protested the Saudi-led Newcastle United takeover.
A section of supporters displayed a banner during the club’s game against the Magpies which took aim at the Premier League’s ‘Owners and Directors’ test which ensures clubs are ran properly after the Saudi consortium, the Public Investment Fund were allowed to complete the takeover, despite concerns surrounding the Middle Eastern state’s human rights records.
As a result, Police were contacted and made a full investigation after receiving reports of an ‘offensive banner’ at Selhurst Park.
In a statement on Monday afternoon, Croydon Police confirmed that “Following an assessment, officers have concluded that no offences have been committed. No further action will be taken.”
UPDATE: On Saturday, a member of the public contacted us to raise concerns about a banner displayed at the Crystal Palace vs Newcastle match at Selhurst Park.
Following an assessment, officers have concluded that no offences have been committed. No further action will be taken.
— Croydon MPS (@MPSCroydon) October 25, 2021
Crystal Palace supporters group, the ‘Holmesdale Fanatics’ made a statement after the game last weekend confirming they were responsible for the banner.
The banner itself seemed to have a checklist making a mockery of the Owners and Directors test with a list containing all alleged offences that have been made by the Saudi regime which include: ‘Terrorism, beheading, civil rights abuses, murder, censorship and persecution’.
Many have opposed the takeover given that the chair of the PIF – Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Salman – is subject to accusations of a number of human rights records, whilst large-profile organisations such as Amnesty International have condemned the takeover.
Meanwhile, during Newcastle’s first game under the new ownership, a poster with the caption “Justice for Jamal” in reference to journalist Jamal Khashoggi who was murdered in the Saudi consulate in 2018 was seen outside St James’ Park as an act of protest.
Related links:
- Crystal Palace fans unveil banner protesting Saudi ownership of Newcastle
- Newcastle change stance to allow fans to wear culturally-inspired clothing
- Justice for Jamal Khashoggi poster seen outside St James’ Park ahead of Newcastle game
