HOOLIGANS trying to sneak out of England to have a punch-up in Germany face immediate arrest.
Police are patrolling Leeds Bradford Airport looking for known troublemakers who may be trying to get to Germany to cause trouble during the World Cup finals, which kick-off tomorrow.
Troublemakers who are already subject to Football Banning Orders were legally obliged to surrender their passports to police before May 30 - but some have failed to do so.
Anyone breaking an order by trying to travel to Germany will be immediately detained and be taken to court for failing to comply with the order.
Superintendent David Lunn, of West Yorkshire Police, said: "Quite simply, we don't want the celebrations of the majority of football fans spoiled by the actions of a few mindless individuals.
"If you think you can leave for Germany by Leeds Bradford Airport, think again.
"Access will be denied to you. We have an extensive operation in place. Uniformed officers and covert spotters will recognise any individual subject to a Football Banning Order."
Police can apply for such orders against people convicted of football-related offences.
They last between three and 10 years and mean people are banned from all League games in this country and matches abroad.
There are 159 Football Banning Orders in place in West Yorkshire. Anyone who breaks one risks imprisonment or a hefty fine.
Supt Lunn added: "This is part of a national operation taking place to ensure the World Cup remains trouble-free and enjoyed by genuine football fans.
"We are working closely with the authorities here and in Germany, sharing intelligence from a special national database."
Anyone with information about suspected football hooligans should phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
