World Cup: Riots Erupt After Morocco's Elimination, Police Officers Injured
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Riots erupted in Düsseldorf after Morocco's elimination from the World Cup, resulting in injuries to three police officers.
- Approximately 1,500 Moroccan team supporters gathered, with the mood turning aggressive as individuals threw fireworks and improvised incendiary devices.
- Police made two arrests and are reviewing extensive video footage to identify further perpetrators of the violence, which included property damage.
Düsseldorf witnessed significant unrest following Morocco's exit from the World Cup quarter-finals against France, leading to injuries among three police officers. Around 1,500 supporters of the Moroccan team had convened near the main train station. Initially, the atmosphere was reportedly positive, but it quickly escalated into aggression.
According to a police spokesperson, individuals in masks began throwing fireworks, glass bottles, and homemade incendiary devices indiscriminately into the crowd and at police officers. The rioters also uprooted traffic signs and overturned trash bins. The police deployed a substantial force to manage the situation and clear the Ellerstraße to prevent further escalation.
Authorities apprehended two individuals, aged 15 and 20, suspected of rioting. One is accused of throwing a shopping cart at officers, while the other allegedly threw a bottle. A 27-year-old police officer required hospital treatment, and two others sustained minor injuries. Police have initiated criminal proceedings for assault, rioting, and dangerous bodily harm, and are currently analyzing extensive video evidence to identify additional suspects.
Initially, the mood was good, but then it turned aggressive.
Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.