DRESDEN, Germany (AP) – Police in the German city of Dresden have opened more than a dozen investigations into crimes including causing “dangerous bodily harm.” massive failure Involving fans in soccer matches.
During Saturday’s second division match, dozens of Dynamo Dresden fans ran across the field towards Hertha Berlin supporters only to be chased back by police. Dresden fans then burned the Hertha fans’ flag.
The match resumed after a break of nearly 20 minutes, with Hertha winning 1-0.
Police said in a statement late Saturday that they were investigating crimes including dangerous bodily harm, breach of peace and damage to property. Police did not immediately confirm whether there were any injuries or arrests.
Dynamo Dresden’s financial director Stefan Zimmermann apologized to “all those involved in this unnecessary act” and said the club had met with police.
“Our home games are known for their unique atmosphere. Photos like the ones we saw tonight are unacceptable and do great harm not only to our club but to German football as a whole,” Zimmermann said in a statement.
“We and many other clubs have been advocating for the benefit of fans and a safe stadium experience in recent months, and scenes like this are a huge blow.”
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