The Western Sydney Wanderers chairman Paul Lederer condemns heavy-handed treatment of the club’s supporters by NSW Police and calls for equal and respectful treatment of fans at matches.

Lederer notes the club does not condone anti-social behaviour, but argues accountability must not define an entire fan base.

He stresses fans should not be penalised collectively for a few, and urges fair, consistent, and respectful enforcement by NSW Police, stadium authorities, and the A-Leagues.

The club says it has maintained constructive dialogue with authorities, but patience should not be mistaken for acceptance, recalling fans’ 20-minute silence to voice concerns.

Tensions peaked after a Campbelltown Stadium match against Macarthur FC, when up to 20 public order and riot squad officers were stationed behind Wanderers’ supporter bays during a 0-0 draw.

This moment coincided with the same scene of officers behind the supporters bays during the same 0-0 game.

Lederer thanks Members and fans for their support and pledges to continue standing up for them and leading the club’s stance.

The club recognises safety roles of NSW Police, stadium authorities, and the A-Leagues, but calls for fair, consistent, and respectful enforcement of rules.

Lederer commits to ongoing discussions with NSW Police, the A-Leagues, and other stakeholders to pursue fair and respectful treatment while protecting the club’s supporters and future.

The game featured 20 minutes of silence by the Red and Black Bloc in protest of police-ordered surrender of drums, megaphones, and banners two hours before kickoff.

Wanderers’ Red and Black Bloc supporters group staged the 20-minute silence to protest the pre-match surrender demands.

Lederer says the Red and Black Bloc are an integral part of the club and should not be treated as second-class citizens, condemning individual anti-social behaviour while rejecting broad penalties for fans.