Police in Budapest have launched an investigation after supporters were involved in a clash ahead of Saturday’s UEFA Champions League final between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.
According to a statement from local authorities, the incident took place in the early hours of Saturday morning in the Hungarian capital’s seventh district.
Videos circulating on social media appeared to show groups of supporters from both clubs fighting in the street, with flares also being lit during the disturbance. Reports suggested around 30 fans from each side were involved in the confrontation.
CCTV Footage Under Review
Budapest police confirmed that officers are examining security camera footage as part of their investigation.
A police statement said the altercation occurred on Kiraly Street at approximately 12:20am local time. Authorities have opened proceedings against unidentified individuals on suspicion of gang violence.
Investigators are now working to identify those involved through video evidence gathered from the area.
Massive Security Operation In Place
The Champions League final at the Puskas Arena has been classified as a high-risk event, prompting one of the largest security operations ever seen in Hungary.
Nearly 4,000 police officers have been deployed across Budapest as tens of thousands of supporters arrive in the city for the final, including many without match tickets.
Earlier this week, Hungary’s deputy national police chief Zoltan Janos Kuczik described the operation as the largest single-day police deployment in the country’s history.
Security planning for the final reportedly began more than a year ago due to the scale of the event and the expected number of travelling supporters.
Earlier Arrests Made On Friday
Police had already made several arrests before the latest incident.
Two Portuguese men and one British national were detained following a separate disturbance at the Champions League fan festival on Friday. The individuals were later charged with disorderly conduct.
Authorities also arrested another British man after he allegedly climbed onto the roof of a parked vehicle and caused damage to the car.
With Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain supporters continuing to arrive in Budapest ahead of kick-off, police remain on high alert as they seek to prevent any further incidents around the city.
Discussion about this post