Reports that an off-duty Norfolk police officer was assaulted in Ukraine following England's first match in the Euro 2012 football championships have been confirmed by Norfolk Constabulary.
PC David Heasman, 45, was said to have been punched and kicked by a group of four men following England's 1-1 draw with France in Donetsk yesterday evening.
A national newspaper claimed Mr Heasman had said the four men had told him they were 'Russian mafia' and also said he received a cut to the ear but did not require hospital treatment and police were notified.
A Norfolk Constabulary spokesman confirmed the incident this afternoon, saying: 'We can confirm an off-duty police officer suffered minor injuries after being assaulted while on holiday in the Ukraine.'
Do you know Mr Heasman? Contact reporter David Freezer on 01603 772418 or david.freezer@archant.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here