Arrests in soccer violence inquiry

The violence took place before a match at the Valley

Twenty-one people have been arrested in connection with violence which broke out before the Premiership clash between Charlton Athletic and Southampton.

The arrests relate to a fight at Maze Hill station in south east London on 13 April.

More than 150 officers took part in dawn raids at addresses in London and Hampshire on Thursday.

Eight suspects are being questioned in Southampton and 13 in London.

Organised fight

Paul Nicholas, Assistant Chief Constable of British Transport Police (BTP), said: "Events such as those at Maze Hill, deliberately organised to avoid police detection, do occur and are of growing concern to rail users and train companies.

"We are determined to do what it takes to crack down on this anti-social behaviour."

The BTP told the BBC they were still looking for a number of other people in connection with the incident.

Violence erupted shortly before the teams were due to play at Charlton's Valley stadium.

The fans had dispersed by the time police arrived at Maze Hill.

A joint operation by the BTP, Hampshire Police and the Met relied on CCTV footage and witness statements in their investigation.