Police in Monchengladbach made over 200 arrests following clashes between rival fans ahead of the Bundesliga's Rhine derby between Borussia Monchengladbach and FC Cologne. The arrests included 131 Cologne supporters and 74 home team fans, identified as 'problem fans' by the authorities.
The violent clashes occurred outside the stadium where Borussia Monchengladbach supporters were preparing choreography for the highly anticipated match. The situation escalated to the point where additional police forces had to be called in to maintain order.
According to police reports, three officers sustained injuries during the clashes, with one officer unable to continue their duties due to the severity of their injuries. The law enforcement officials had to resort to using pepper spray and batons to separate the warring fan groups and restore peace.
In response to the incidents, the police have initiated investigations into various offenses, including violations of the explosives act, serious breaches of the peace, and resistance to emergency services. The high number of arrests necessitated the use of buses from a local transport company to process and transport the individuals taken into custody.
The clashes and subsequent arrests serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by authorities in managing fan rivalries and ensuring public safety during high-profile sporting events. The Bundesliga match between Borussia Monchengladbach and FC Cologne was overshadowed by the pre-game violence, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures and vigilance in handling such situations in the future.
