Newcastle launched a review into their safety operations after the home Champions League tie against Borussia Dortmund was subject of a major security alert.
Eddie Howe’s side lost the European clash courtesy of a Felix Nmecha goal – but we can now reveal the game was played amid significant security concerns.
The incident centred around five teenagers who were behaving suspiciously at St James’ Park.
The group are believed to have intruded into a restricted area inside the stadium.
It is understood security officials were alerted to the individuals and arrived quickly onto the scene.
Newcastle’s Champions League tie vs Borussia Dortmund was subject of a major security alert
The males were confronted by on-site police officers and arrested on suspicion of burglary before being taken into custody.
Mail Sport understands they were in possession of a bag, which was empty, sparking initial fears the group may have planted a device in the stadium – but those concerns were unfounded.
The males were later released and will face no further action.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: ‘During the policing operation for the Champions League match between Newcastle United and Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday, October 25, five males were arrested inside St. James’ Park on suspicion of burglary.
‘All five males, who were aged between 16 and 18, were released from custody and will face no further action.’
As a result of the flashpoint, Newcastle security chiefs audited safety procedures ahead of their next home match against Arsenal on November 4.
Eddie Howe’s side lost the European clash in October – but Mail Sport can reveal the game was played amid significant security concerns
Sources insist the aim of the review was to ensure their current processes were in order for the visit of Mikel Arteta’s side and not a more extensive overview into their existing security operations.
This season’s Champions League campaign was the first time St James’ Park has hosted European competition since the 2012-13 campaign when they featured in the Europa League, with UEFA understood to have provided positive feedback to Newcastle regrading their match-day operations this season.
