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South Yorkshire Police issue Hillsborough apology

South Yorkshire Police chief constable David Crompton says that the force "unequivocally" accepts the verdict that all 96 fans who died at Hillsborough were unlawfully killed.

South Yorkshire Police have apologised to those affected by the Hillsborough tragedy after a jury concluded that all 96 fans who died were unlawfully killed.

After two years of evidence at inquests into the deaths, the jury unanimously decided that the force made errors in their planning for the FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest on April 15, 1989.

It also concluded that police commander David Duckenfield made a mistake in opening the gate at the Leppings Lane End, which resulted in the crush that killed 96 supporters.

Chief constable David Crompton said that the force "unequivocally" accepts the verdict and apologised to the families who had to wait more than 27 years for justice.

"As I have said before, I want to apologise unreservedly to the families and all those affected," he said in a statement.

A number of players past and present have celebrated the verdict on social media, while prime minister David Cameron has praised the courage of those who campaigned for justice.

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Prime Minister David Cameron speaks during an official reception at Downing Street on September 16, 2013
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