Norwich report alleged racism to police

Norwich have confirmed that they have reported four separate cases of alleged or actual racist abuse aimed at defender Sebastien Bassong.

Police have been investigating two incidents involving abusive messages sent to the Cameroonian immediately after the Everton game on November 24.

Two further incidents have now also been reported, as Bassong was the subject of racist abuse from a fan who was subsequently arrested at the Liberty Stadium during the club’s clash with Swansea on Saturday, and then received another offensive message on Twitter after the match.

In a statement released by the club, it was reiterated that they will punish any individuals found guilty to the full extent of the law.

“Norwich City regrets to confirm four separate cases involving actual or alleged racist abuse aimed at our defender Sebastien Bassong have been reported to police in the last two weeks,” the statement read.

“Following a complaint made by Sebastien to referee Howard Webb during last Saturday’s 4-3 Barclays Premier League win at Swansea, a man in the home section of the crowd was arrested and later charged in relation to alleged racist abuse.

“We would like to thank both Swansea City FC and South Wales Police for their swift and effective handling of this unfortunate incident.

“In the evening following the match a tweet containing racist abuse was sent to Sebastien’s Twitter account. We have this morning passed details of this incident on to Norfolk Police for them to investigate.

“Meanwhile, Norfolk Police are in the process of investigating two further separate racist tweets about Sebastien sent following our 1-1 draw at Everton on Saturday, November 24.

“Sebastien Bassong is a fantastic athlete and professional who we are proud to have on board at Norwich City. It is deeply disappointing that his recent excellent performances for the club should be tarnished by these incidents.

“Norwich City Football Club wish to reiterate that we have a zero tolerance stance on racism and will pursue these and any other examples of discrimination aimed at any of our colleagues to the fullest extent of the law.”