Library image by Phillip Kofler from Pixabay
Two men are facing charges following a disturbance involving rival football fans outside Gillingham railway station. The clash occurred before the League Two match between Gillingham FC and Swindon Town on Saturday, April 26, 2025.
Kent Police officers, who were on patrol to prevent disruption, quickly intervened when violence erupted between the two groups. A man aged, 19, from Sittingbourne, was charged with a public order offense and failing to answer bail. A 31 year-old man from Swindon, was charged with assault by beating. Both are scheduled to appear at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, September 3.
The charges come as Kent Police highlight their ongoing efforts to ensure a safe environment for football supporters. Chief Superintendent Simon Alland stated that while most fans behave well, a small number of people continue to cause trouble. Last season, police arrested or interviewed 28 individuals for offences at or around football matches, including fighting, hate crimes, and pitch invasions. Officers also helped club stewards eject 65 troublemakers.
“Anyone who commits such offences risks joining the 42 Kent residents currently subject to Football Banning Orders,” said Alland, “and are not allowed to attend any regulated matches anywhere in England or Wales.”
In a separate case, a 20-year-old man was sentenced to two years and 11 months in prison at Birmingham Crown Court on Thursday, August 7. He pleaded guilty to wounding with intent and affray after he kicked a teenage boy in the face prior to an FA Cup match in November 2024. Kent Police officers identified the man from CCTV footage and arrested him in Kent on behalf of West Midlands Police. The affray offence was committed in Essex in 2023 during a game between Maidstone and Southend United.