Before England’s opening Euro 2024 match against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen, there was a fight involving England fans and Serbia supporters, as depicted in videos circulating on social media.
The incident in the German city escalated to the point where tables, chairs, and bottles were thrown, prompting the intervention of riot police.
According to local police, two groups were separated, and seven individuals from Serbia were subsequently arrested. Among them, one person faces a criminal complaint for grievous bodily harm. The UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU) stated that it is collaborating with German authorities and reviewing available footage of the incident.
Separately, in Hamburg, police officers shot and seriously injured an individual on Sunday under circumstances where the suspect allegedly posed a threat.
Reports from Hamburg police indicate that the suspect was armed with a pickaxe and attempted to ignite a petrol bomb. Police responded first with pepper spray and then resorted to using firearms.
The incidents have raised concerns and garnered attention ahead of England’s campaign at Euro 2024, highlighting security challenges surrounding international football events.
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