Rome-Feyenoord – Night of clashes in Tirana, 60 arrested and 80 expelled. 10 policemen injured

Violence between opposing fans and the police: today the capital will be closed to traffic. 10 policemen injured. Still high alert

What was feared happened: a night of clashes in Tirana between fans of Feyenoord, Roma and police. The evening considered most at risk by local law enforcement was that of Tuesday and so it was. There have been clashes in various parts of the city, from the center, to the outskirts, at the end of which about fifty fans between Roma and Dutch have been sent home (some by ship, others by air) because they are unwelcome people on Albanian territory.

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the budget

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At the moment there are no official numbers, it is likely that the local police will make an estimate today, but in the meantime, following clashes with stones, bottles and sticks, there are two wounded Romanists, two wounded Albanians (one in the head so serious) and a few slightly bruised Dutch fans. In tonight’s clashes 19 police officers and 5 Albanian citizens were injured. An officer reported a stab wound, a knife, according to authorities. Three Italian and two Dutch fans were also injured. According to local media, 10 police officers were injured, a vehicle was destroyed and the police renewed their appeal to “avoid violence that has no connection with sport”. CNN has released images of an agent who in an attempt to divide the factions draws a gun aiming it at eye level. Finally, a further disturbing note: some managers of restaurants in Tirana complain about the theft by Romanist customers of kitchen knives.

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Today’s day

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Tirana, today, will be closed to private traffic and the city holiday has been proclaimed precisely for having a large pedestrian area, from the center to the stadium, with carpet checks. For now the situation is back under control, but it is clear that from 13 until 21, the starting time of the game, the alert will return to high. Also because 8 thousand fans are expected to arrive at the airport from Rome and Rotterdam by 2 pm.

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The convictions

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The deputy chief of the Albanian police, Albert Dervishi, called on “Italian and Dutch fans to behave and act as European citizens, respect the laws of the country and not clash with the police, otherwise the laws will be strictly applied”. Dervishi confirmed the arrest of 48 Italian and 12 Dutch fans and noted that anyone arrested for riots faces up to 7 years in prison. The senior local law enforcement official also urged stores not to sell glass bottles to customers and warned Tirana residents about the risk of “provocation by individuals or groups of fans who could be under the threat. ‘effect of alcohol “.

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