Liverpool residents have rallied around a family who were spat at and racially abused during a trip to Anfield. The incident has prompted an outpouring of support and anger across the city.
Family's 'dream trip' turns to horror
Salim Ahmed, a 39-year-old businessman and lifelong Liverpool fan from Bristol, brought his wife and three children aged 7, 9 and 13 to Liverpool for what they hoped would be a 'dream trip'. They had tickets to see the Reds play Monaco in a pre-season friendly on Sunday and planned to make a weekend of it to celebrate their eldest child's birthday.
Arriving in the city on Friday evening, the family decided to stroll around the famous stadium to view murals of LFC stars. But at around 9.30pm, they were attacked by a gang of youths on bikes who spat at them and hurled racist abuse.
City responds with anger and support
The story has caused shock and anger across Liverpool, with many ECHO readers expressing their outrage and assuring the family that the attackers do not represent the city. Kathy Woods said: "How sad this is when we are renowned for our kindness and hospitality in this city. I really hope Liverpoool Football Club can bring this family back and give them a lovely experience and they can go away with good memories not bad ones from a minority of horrible kids."
Enid Brough added: "So sorry for you and your family I hope you can return to have a much better experience." Ann Maloney said: "So sorry for that dreadful experience you all went through. I hope the club get to hear of this awful incident and invite you to a great day out."
Angela Stuart commented: "So terribly sad. I was born in Liverpool, but don’t live in England now. I am always saddened, when I hear of such despicable incidents. I often hear great stories of Liverpool people being kind, funny, hospitable and generous. It makes me sad to read this kind of racism and violence towards people. I hope these perpetrators are caught & get what they deserve."
Hammad Leghari said Liverpool is "better than this", adding: "We've always welcomed people from across the world to come through the Shankly gates for decades. I hope these vile behaviours get addressed.. Apologies to the family, as these behaviours are not a representation of our scouse values. YNWA."
Denials and wider concerns
Some on social media claimed the incident did not happen, despite eyewitnesses and a police statement. Lee Thomas suggested the reporting was fictional without providing evidence. Eyewitness Michelle Phennah replied: "This did happen I witnessed it and his poor family."
Others commented on the rise of racist incidents. David Lancaster said: "Once you let racism out of the bottle and let it be used to win elections, it's very difficult to put it back in the bottle." Ryan Ellison added: "It says a lot about what is going on at home with these kids acting like this, parents should be teaching their kids about respect for all people, instead of being racist as it feeds on it. This is disgraceful."
Police investigation and club response
Liverpool Chief Inspector Andrew Fielding said: "This was an absolutely despicable abuse and assault of a family who were simply enjoying artwork near to Anfield Stadium, only to be confronted by youths intent on causing fear and distress. We are supporting the victims as our investigation continues.
"Enquiries are ongoing to identify these youths and I would appeal to anyone who was in the area at around 9.30pm, or lives locally and may have captured images or moving footage on CCTV, dashcam or doorbell devices. Your information could be vital in tracking down those responsible. Similarly, if you know the names of anyone involved, do the right thing and come forward. We will not tolerate hate crime or violence in our communities, and be assured that we will assess all information received and take appropriate action."
Anyone with information should contact Merseyside Police social media desk via X or Facebook @MerPolCC, report via the website, or call 101 quoting incident reference 26000647046. The ECHO understands that Liverpool FC is investigating and seeing how it can help the family and the police, including monitoring CCTV in the area. The club is in direct contact with Salim and is aiming to help however it can.
