By Sibongile Kumwenda
Two people have died and around 200 injuries have been reported following a night of cerebration that turned into a scene of devastation as Paris Saint-Germain’s historic UEFA Champions League win sparked violent riots across France.
Reportedly, the chaos erupted late on Saturday night and continued into the early hours of Sunday, following PSG’s record 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League final.
Thousands of supporters took to the streets of Paris to celebrate, but the festive atmosphere quickly descended into chaos. Disturbances were reported in several locations, particularly around the Champs-Élysées and Parc des Princes stadium, with clashes between fans and police, vehicles being set ablaze, shops being looted, and projectiles being thrown at law enforcement officers.
According to French authorities, over 500 people were arrested nationwide, with Paris experiencing the heaviest unrest. The two fatalities reported include one individual who was stabbed during a street brawl between rival fan groups and another who died after being struck by a speeding vehicle in a separate incident.
Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin expressed his disappointment, stating, “This should have been a night of national pride. Instead, it was marred by violence, lawlessness, and a disregard for public safety.”
President Emmanuel Macron also weighed in, congratulating PSG on their victory while condemning the violence. “We must celebrate our sporting achievements with dignity. My thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives and those who were injured.” He said
Despite the unrest, PSG players returned to Paris to a hero’s welcome, although public events were toned down out of respect for the victims.
The Paris prosecutor’s office has launched investigations into the causes of the violence, and additional security measures are expected to be announced ahead of PSG’s public celebrations later this week.
Post a Comment