Violent Clashes Between Football Supporters in Lahti Lead to 48 Arrests
Police detained 48 individuals following a violent brawl between supporters of FC Lahti and HJK in Lahti on Saturday afternoon. The confrontation occurred near Paasikivenkatu, shortly after noon, ahead of the Veikkausliiga match between the two teams, which was scheduled to begin at 15:00.
According to Ilta-Sanomat, the clash involved supporters from both clubs, though police have not yet confirmed whether detainees represented both sides. Commissioner Elina Katajamäki of the Häme Police Department stated that the investigation is ongoing, and further details will emerge as it progresses. Daily Finland reports that the brawl erupted as a result of tensions over the match fixture.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes, with participants throwing objects and igniting pyrotechnic flares. Some individuals were masked, and property damage was reported, including shattered windows and damaged outdoor furniture (Daily Finland). Police responded swiftly to the disturbance, which took place at Paasikivenaukio, and managed to restore order.
The majority of those arrested are Finnish citizens, though authorities also detained individuals from Liechtenstein, Poland, Italy, and Austria (Ilta-Sanomat). No serious injuries were reported, though police have not disclosed whether any minor injuries occurred.
The preliminary investigation includes charges of multiple assaults, illegal masking, and possession of objects or substances capable of causing serious harm (Ilta-Sanomat). Commissioner Katajamäki confirmed that no disturbances were observed during the match itself, which FC Lahti won 2–0. She added that police had deployed strong resources in anticipation of potential unrest.
The incident remains under investigation, with authorities yet to determine the exact cause of the violence.