Mass brawl between football supporters erupts in Lahti
A violent clash between rival football supporters broke out in central Lahti on Saturday afternoon, with police confirming that dozens of people were involved in the brawl. The incident occurred at Paasikivenaukio and is believed to be linked to the Veikkausliiga match between FC Lahti and HJK, which took place earlier in the day.
Commissioner Elina Katajamäki of the Häme Police Department stated that the fight involved supporters of both teams, though the exact number of participants remains unclear. Ilta-Sanomat reports that while dozens were in the vicinity, the police are still determining how many were directly involved in the altercation. Helsingin Sanomat adds that the brawl was not prearranged, according to police estimates.
Eyewitness accounts and police reports describe a chaotic scene, with some participants wearing masks and pyrotechnic flares being lit. Objects were also thrown during the confrontation (Yle). Helsingin Sanomat notes that the police have detained several individuals, who are preliminarily suspected of multiple assaults and illegal masking. Commissioner Katajamäki indicated that arrests would be made and that the incident would likely result in "several crime reports" (Ilta-Sanomat).
No serious injuries have been reported in connection with the brawl. The investigation is ongoing, and police have not disclosed the exact number of detainees at this stage (Helsingin Sanomat). The charges against those detained may be specified as the inquiry progresses.