Portsmouth v Southampton: Police granted search powers at football derby

Police said the stop-and-search measures were "precautionary"

Officers policing the Portsmouth v Southampton football derby have been authorised to stop and search people before and after the match.

A dispersal order is already in place for Southampton, Portsmouth and part of Fareham until 02:00 BST on Wednesday, meaning people can be asked to leave certain areas for a 48-hour period.

Officers have also been granted powers to force people to uncover their faces.

Anyone caught flouting the orders faces arrest.

Hampshire Constabulary said Tuesday's game prompted its "largest ever football policing operation in Hampshire".

It said the stop-and-search measures were "precautionary" to "help ensure the safety of those going to the match".

The force said: "We recognise the majority of people will just want to enjoy the game, so please listen to any instructions our police officers give you.

"We want this match to be remembered for what happens on the pitch, not off it. Be passionate, enjoy the game and do your club proud."

Hampshire Constabulary said it was their largest football policing operation

Riot officers, police dogs, helicopters, horses and drones have been deployed to the game.

The clubs are facing each other in the Carabao Cup tie. It will be the first time they have met since 2012.

Southampton fans were not escorted to and from Portsmouth's ground, Fratton Park, in a "coach bubble", as they were in 2012 to try to prevent rival fans meeting.

On that occasion five fans were arrested and six were removed from the stadium.

Southampton FC urged travelling to the game in club shirts to be wary, and warned that any fans bringing the club into disrepute would be "investigated appropriately".