Brisbane Roar’s fan group stage walkout amid clash with Qld police

Brisbane Roar has responded after confronting footage outside Suncorp Stadium captures a man screaming “I can’t breathe” while being pinned by police, while fans marched out in protest. WATCH THE VIDEO, SEE THE RESPONSE

Confronting footage from outside Suncorp Stadium on Sunday shows a Brisbane soccer fan screaming “I can’t breathe” as he is pinned to the ground and arrested by police.

There were further ugly scenes on Caxton Street as police officers confronted Brisbane Roar supporters as they marched to the stadium, even shoving some of the young fans.

The A-League club issued a statement on Monday evening saying it “stands unwaveringly with fans” and “any misconduct, by individuals or authorities, will be addressed”.

Diehard Brisbane Roar fans, known as The Den, staged a walkout of the venue during the 25th minute – with the Roar 1-0 up – of their team’s 3-2 win over Melbourne Victory on Sunday in protest against several earlier altercations with police officers that day.

One fan was arrested by police outside the stadium.

A video of the interaction, which was posted to social media, showed three officers pinning a man to the ground with the help of a security guard.

During the incident, the man screamed “I can’t breathe, I’m serious” before police sat him up.

Another video was posted on social media from earlier in the day, which showed Brisbane’s fan group, The Den, marching to Suncorp before a clash with police, where one officer is seen yelling at fans to correct their behaviour ahead of the game.

The footage then shows contact made between an officer and one of the fans, which ignites a reaction from surrounding members of the group.

The video does not show what happened before the altercation.

Brisbane Roar fan group, The Den, stage a 25th minute walkout during the club's clash with the Melbourne Victory in protest after several police incidents on game day. Picture: @thfcJoseph/X

This altercation is believed to have led to a walkout from the members of the fan group, which has also been posted to social media, at the 25th minute of the game in protest of the actions from police.

A QPS spokesman said police issued a 17-year-old boy and a 27-year-old man with move on directions following alleged anti-social behaviour at Milton on March 3.

“It will be alleged the duo were part of a large group of spectators engaging in anti-social behaviour and ignoring directions from security personnel prior to the commencement of a nearby sporting event,” the spokesman said.

Footage from an altercation between police and Brisbane Roar fans during their march to Suncorp Stadium for an A-League game. Picture: Millfield Sports/TikTok

“Investigations are continuing, and anyone with relevant CCTV or mobile phone vision is urged to contact police.

“In a separate incident, a 16-year-old boy was arrested for disorderly behaviour in Milton this afternoon after allegedly igniting a flare and is being dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act.”

Footage from an altercation between police and Brisbane Roar fans during their march to Suncorp Stadium for an A-League game. Picture: Millfield Sports/TikTok

“Overall, however, police were mostly satisfied with crowd behaviour at [the] event.”

Brisbane Roar FC chairman Kaz Patafta said the club had heard fans’ concerns loud and clear.

“I want to assure you that we are taking decisive actions in response,” he said in a statement.

“Brisbane Roar FC stands unwaveringly with our fans. You are the heart and soul of our club, and your safety and enjoyment are our highest priorities.

“We are committed to upholding the rights and safety of our fans, any form of misconduct, whether by individuals or authorities, will be addressed with the utmost seriousness.

“Together, we will ensure that Brisbane Roar FC remains a symbol of unity, respect, and passion in safe environment. Thank you for standing with us as we navigate this issue.

“Together, we roar louder and stand stronger against any form of misconduct by individuals or authorities.”

An Australian Professional Leagues spokesman said they were aware of incidents which occurred outside Suncorp and CommBank Stadium in Sydney.

“(We) are investigating these incidents as part of a full review with clubs, venues and Police, along with feedback from fans,” the spokesman said.

“Creating a safe and enjoyable environment both inside and outside our venues for all fans, stakeholders and staff is our number one priority.”

The Den issued a statement on Tuesday afternoon addressing the confronting incident that occurred at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday.

“Prior to our regular March on Sunday, we were met by a larger number of QPS officers than usual. These officers were employed by the Stadium and the club was sent the bill,” the statement read.

“The message seemed simple by the officers. Don’t stop walking once we’ve started and no “Death Moshing” around other licensed venues on the street.”

The statement explained how the leader of the Den march was approached by officers despite the group acting safely.

“March started with the group showing their passion, clapping, jumping amongst each other safely. Soon after, the group had slowed down before crossing the street where the capo was aggressively approached, grabbed and threatened with “anti-social behaviour” and “Public Nuisance” if they stopped,” the statement said.

“We stand with those who have been mistreated in any way. We have been working with the club very closely in the aftermath to find a solution with all parties for the future and we are working with individuals who are in the process of pressing charges against the police who have committed crimes against the football-supporting public,” the statement said.