I find it rather sad that a small number of mindless individuals wish to spoil what is one of the best years for Wolves in recent times

Superintendent Andy Armstrong

Superintendent Andy Armstrong said the arrests were aimed at preventing violence at football matches.

"We are sending out a clear message with these raids that we will not tolerate this behaviour.

"Anyone who is thinking of attending football matches and causing trouble will be arrested and put before the courts.

"I find it rather sad that a small number of mindless individuals wish to spoil what is one of the best years for Wolves in recent times.

"The club is working really hard to achieve Premiership football and is providing excellent facilities for its supporters."

The home raids involved 35 officers and centred on homes in Wolverhampton, Cannock, Telford and Dudley.

Superintendant Armstrong said they had been gathering evidence since the start of the season.

"We have been concerned about the increase in organised football violence in and around the ground," he added.

Promotion hopefuls Wolves beat local rivals 2-1, which was the first game as Birmingham City manager for Steve Bruce.