DRESDEN, Germany — Authorities in Dresden have launched over a dozen investigations into potential criminal activities, including “dangerous bodily harm,” stemming from significant disorder involving fans at a recent soccer match.
During the second-division game on Saturday, a group of Dynamo Dresden supporters charged across the pitch toward Hertha Berlin fans, only to be driven back by police. Following this incident, Dresden fans set fire to a Hertha fan flag.
After nearly a 20-minute delay, the match resumed, concluding with a 1-0 victory for Hertha Berlin.
In a statement issued late Saturday, police detailed their inquiries into offenses like dangerous bodily harm, disturbances of the peace, and property damage but did not confirm any injuries or arrests at that time.
Stephan Zimmermann, the finance director of Dynamo Dresden, expressed regret to “all innocent bystanders affected by these senseless actions” and noted that the club has been in discussions with law enforcement.
“Our home matches are celebrated for their unique atmosphere,” Zimmermann said in a statement. “Incidents like the ones we witnessed tonight are unacceptable and inflict significant harm not only on our club but on soccer in Germany as a whole.”
“We, along with many other clubs, have been advocating for fan rights and a secure stadium environment in recent months, and occurrences like this are a significant setback.”