TWELVE Solihull football hooligans banned from matches are being warned by police not attend to a pre-World Cup friendly.They were sent letters by West Midlands Police demanding they hand in their passports by Friday ahead of the England v Japan game in Austria today.
All have a Football Banning Order and are warned the police are working with airport security to ensure none leave the country.
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Breaches could result in prison or a fine of up to £5,000.
Inspector Howard Lewis-Jones said in a press release: "We will be sending out a clear message that violence, disorder or anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.
"By focusing on individuals who are the subject of banning orders we will send a powerful message both to them and anyone considering trouble back home during the tournament."
He said: “Banning orders are a powerful tool to ensure that passports are handed in prior to any England game abroad.
“The game in Graz against Japan gives us the perfect opportunity for a trial run ahead of the World Cup.”
And he warned fans that bad behaviour could land them with a ban.
Insp Lewis-Jones said: “By all means have a few beers, be patriotic and enjoy the football, but remember that a moment of madness could mean a criminal record and a banning order that could stop you watching your team for a long time.”
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