Greater Manchester Police have arrested a 56-year-old man from St Helens in connection with racist abuse directed at Wigan Warriors player Junior Nsemba online. The arrest was made on Friday, July 10, following an investigation into comments made after Wigan defeated St Helens R.F.C. on Sunday, July 5.
Details of the Incident
The Rugby League club confirmed on July 9 that Nsemba, 22, was subjected to racist remarks on social media after the match. In a statement, Wigan and Leigh Police said: "Earlier this week, and following on from Super League Magic Weekend, officers from Wigan's Neighbourhood Team were made aware of an online incident where racist abuse was directed towards one of the players."
Police added: "Following an investigation into the matter and with the support of both Wigan Warriors and St Helens RLFC we were able to identify a male who we believe may be able to assist us with our enquiries. Shortly before 8am this morning (Friday 10 July), officers from Wigan’s Neighbourhood Tasking Team arrested a 56-year-old male from the St Helens area on suspicion of a racially aggravated malicious communication offence. He currently remains in custody awaiting interview."
Club and Coach Response
Wigan Warriors coach Matt Peet condemned the abuse, saying: "As a game, as a club, we're better than that, it needs to be stamped out. Those people that are doing that, hiding behind phones and keyboards, our club is open to them. If any of them want to come and speak to us and Junior, they can. If these people are associated with the game, then we need to take care of it."
Wigan Warriors issued a strongly worded statement, saying they are "appalled" by the comments. "The club is aware of racist remarks made on social media about one of our players. We condemn them in the strongest possible terms. No individual should be subjected to racist abuse, whether online, in person or in any other setting. Racism must be called out, condemned and eradicated. We will report such matters through the appropriate channels and will work with the relevant authorities, the Rugby Football League and social media platforms to ensure they are investigated and dealt with properly."
Police Commitment
Greater Manchester Police stated they take all instances of hate crime "extremely seriously" and encouraged anyone with concerns to report via 101 or through a dedicated section on their website.
