“We were called to a large-scale disturbance"
Gunshots were allegedly heard during a terrifying brawl at a Kabaddi tournament in Derby.
Crowds had gathered for the event on Elvaston Lane in Alvaston on August 20, 2023.
However, things erupted at around 4 pm, allegedly sparked by two rival gangs.
Broadcast footage of the tournament from the Panjab Broadcasting Channel showed the moment that live commentary cut out as terrified spectators behind the fences began running from the threat.
A group appeared to be marching in unison and one man could be seen swinging around his head what appears to be a large knife or bat.
Video footage on social media showed crowds running away from what sounded like gunshots.
As spectators ran, several men – who appeared to be wielding swords – were also seen. The men were dressed in black and had their faces covered.
People were seen screaming and stumbling over each other in a bid to get to their cars and flee the scene.
One man was standing to see what was going on. Amid the chaos, he is pushed over by one person trying to run away.
Towards the end of the video, one man is seen in the middle of the field, wielding two swords.
Another video showed the group marching while spectators and kabaddi players looked on.
Armed police rushed to the scene, with witnesses saying they saw more than 20 police cars.
One person described seeing a man being shot before being attacked repeatedly with a sword.
The eyewitness said:
“One man was shot and then when on the floor chopped up with a sword.”
People were seen frantically trying to leave the site in their cars as they gave their details to police.
Some were unable to get their vehicles due to them being at the scene.
The incident left three people injured, with one person in serious condition.
Watch the Video. Warning – Distressing Images
Shots fired at a derby Kabbadi tournament pic.twitter.com/OEV5XNxwEO
— Sabji Hunter (@SabjiHunter) August 20, 2023
A police spokesperson said: “We were called to a large-scale disturbance in Elvaston Lane, Alvaston at 15:51 on Sunday 20 August.
“Three people have been injured, one seriously. They have all been taken to hospital.
“There is a large police presence in the area and officers are expected to remain at the scene for some time.
“Anyone who witnessed the incident, or has any information, is asked to contact us quoting the reference 739 of 20 August.”
Four men have since been arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm and violent disorder.
The men – aged 24, 28, 30 and 38 – remain in custody.
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