Riot police intervene in Dutch cities after Morocco's World Cup win sparks unrest

Dutch riot police, known as the Mobiele Eenheid (ME), were deployed in Rotterdam and Utrecht on Saturday evening to manage disturbances that erupted after Morocco's World Cup victory against Canada.

In Rotterdam, the ME intervened when a group of individuals obstructed an emergency route designated for ambulances and fire services. Police issued multiple warnings for the group to clear the path before deploying the riot unit, according to the ANP news agency. The celebrations following Morocco's 3-0 win, which secured their place in the World Cup quarterfinals, turned chaotic in some areas.

Utrecht experienced similar scenes, with celebrations in neighborhoods like Lombok, Kanaleneiland, and Overvecht escalating into disorder. Fires were ignited, roads were blocked, and police officers faced barrages of heavy fireworks. The ME was called in to restore order and prevent further disruptions.

Earlier in the day, unrest also occurred in The Hague's Schilderswijk district. Celebrations there threatened to spiral out of control as police were pelted with fireworks and eggs. Authorities declared a state of emergency, leading to a joint operation involving the police, ME, and mounted police to clear the unruly fans from the area. A water cannon was also deployed during this operation.