Arsenal in talks with police over investigation into Whatsapp group

Arsenal Football Club is in contact with the police as part of its investigation into posts sent through a fan-led Whatsapp group that the Club supports. 

The investigation relates to messages sent in 2019 through a group chat for Ashburton Army, an organisation for Arsenal supporters. Whilst the group itself is separate from the Club, it is known to receive access to a number of lower-tier tickets for Arsenal games, for which its members can then apply. 

It is understood that the content of the messages includes references to the Holocaust, Jewish circumcision and conspiracy theories, among other topics. 

Ashburton Army said: “We strongly condemn any form of racism and antisemitic talk as we are a group with many religions and races and have Jewish members. We will continue to educate members and work with the club throughout the investigation.”

The Metropolitan Police Service has confirmed that an investigation is ongoing, but no arrests have been made. 

Arsenal have said that it “strongly condemns the abusive and discriminatory language being used” and has confirmed that it is in contact with police regarding the messages. 

Earlier this year, Arsenal announced the launch of a new affiliate group called “Jewish Gooners”, whose purpose is to combat antisemitism and cultivate a more “inclusive” environment for Jewish fans. 

Campaign Against Antisemitism continues to report on and act against instances of anti-Jewish racism in all sports.