ONE of the thugs being hunted over obscene chants at soccer star Sol Campbell is thought to be a COP.
Earlier this week police issued pictures of 16 Tottenham fans who allegedly subjected Campbell to a tirade of abuse.
They have already arrested two of the mob — and are set to question a further seven suspects.
The group are accused of shouting racist and homophobic abuse at the former Tottenham defender when their team played Portsmouth in September.
Yesterday Essex Police admitted they were liaising with their counterparts in Hampshire over claims that one of their officers was in the group.
The PC, who is in his early 20s, only recently joined the force after completing his basic training.
Cops began probing the sick songs targeted at former England centre-back Campbell, 34, who became a hate figure to Spurs fans after he left White Hart Lane to join North London rivals Arsenal in 2001.
Last night a former friend of the �cop� in the mob said: �The last time we spoke he was training to be a police officer and planned to join Essex Police.
�I knew he was a Tottenham supporter and I knew he was a bit of a lout so for him to be involved in this, it does not surprise me.�
A 28-year-old from Ringwood, Hants, and a 36-year-old from Wokingham, Berks, arrested in connection with the inquiry were yesterday released on bail until January 21.
Police are still looking to identify the remaining suspects.
A spokesman said: �Officers have received a steady stream of information and names.�
Source: www.thesun.co.uk
