bbc.com 9 days ago URGENCY: 6/10

Champions League Riots: Hundreds Arrested in France

Riots erupted in France following PSG's Champions League victory, leading to hundreds of arrests and numerous injuries. Discover the chaos that unfolded as police clashed with fans across the nation.

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Champions League Riots: Hundreds Arrested in France

Unrest Following PSG's Triumph

Following Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) dramatic Champions League win against Arsenal, France witnessed significant unrest. A total of 780 arrests were made, with 219 individuals injured, including 57 police officers. The violence disrupted public transport and led to a tragic death on Paris's ring road.

Authorities deployed around 6,000 police officers to manage the situation during the victory parade at the Eiffel Tower. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez emphasized the need for public order, stating, "We allow freedom of assembly, but not excesses." The chaos mirrored last year's celebrations, which also turned violent, raising concerns about the safety of public events.

  • Key Facts:
  • 780 arrests made, with over 450 in custody.
  • 219 injuries reported, including serious cases.
  • Police used tear gas to disperse crowds.
  • A 24-year-old died in an accident during the riots.
The aftermath of the celebrations has sparked discussions about the behavior of fans and the need for stricter measures to ensure public safety during such events.