United fanzine confiscated

Police swooped on fanzine sellers outside Old Trafford at the weekend, the Irish Examiner has learned.

Copies of United’s ‘Red Issue’ were confiscated by police after claims the fanzine was “inciting racial hatred”. “It was made clear to us that the sellers would be arrested if they attempted any opposition,” Red Issue said.

“At 11.15 am outside Old Trafford, ‘Red Issue’ fanzine sellers were swooped on by police who confiscated every magazine under what they said were the direct orders of the match commander, Chief Super. Mark Roberts. They claimed to us that the magazine was ‘inciting racial hatred’.

“Red Issue categorically denies that the magazine has ever incited racial hatred. Not one seller was arrested or charged, which offers its own verdict on this ludicrous accusation. We have since been informed by the GMP’s Sergeant Ahmed that all copies will be retained as “evidence” and that the CPS will be making a decision on Monday (today) as to whether charges will be brought.

“Our readers should rest assured that we expect — and will demand, via legal action if necessary — to have the magazines returned and trust that they will then be able to enjoy our publication free of any further unwarranted censorship by authorities.’’