LONDON -- The London Metropolitan Police have deployed 400 officers for Saturday's Championship clash between Millwall and West Ham.
The Dockers Derby has a long history of fan violence and the authorities aren't taking any chances with safety in what will be their first meeting in 14 years.
A 2009 League Cup clash between these two sides at Upton Park saw 13 arrests, three pitch invasions as well as the stabbing of a Millwall fan. West Ham were fined £115,000 after being found guilty on charges of crowd disturbance.
"A significant number of officers will be in the area, including our mounted branch and police dog units. Live facial recognition will also be deployed," a Met Police spokesperson told ESPN.
"This plan is to ensure the safety of fans and the public, however officers will not hesitate to respond in the event of disorderly behaviour or other offences. Met officers are supported by colleagues from the British Transport Police and both clubs."
The Met Police have also issued a Section 35 dispersal order that will give them the authority to remove anyone causing disorder. The area it covers extends from Tower Bridge to Blackheath.
The City of London Police have followed suit and issued a similar order that is in place from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. GMT.
- Millwall vs. West Ham: English football's most notorious rivalry is back
West Ham's relegation into the Championship has seen the renewal of this London derby. Nuno Espirito Santo's side come into the clash top of the table with 16 goals in their last four matches.
Millwall's start to the season has been middling, and they lie 12th in the table with no wins in their last five matches.
