‘Mass escalation of violence is not without consequences’

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The balance is frightening: three employees of a security company were seriously injured, one person suffered minor injuries. About 100 hooded football fans intercepted and attacked them after the cup cracker between FC Basel and YB for St. Jakob-Park. The police, who quickly came to the rescue, arrested two attackers.

Fans who want to use violence strike again and again in Switzerland. After renewed riots at the Zurich city derby in autumn 2021, the federal government and the cantons had had enough. Sports Minister Viola Amherd (60) urged measures, supported by the Conference of Cantonal Justice and Police Directors (KKJPD). The Swiss Football League (SFL) and clubs, on the other hand, resisted taking steps that were too drastic and could alienate the public.

Those responsible had been together for a year and a half. They presented their report in mid-March. Little was left of the resolve of the authorities. A step-by-step plan is drawn up. But first nothing happens. SFL and clubs have prevailed. The Amherd department was bitterly disappointed in Blick.

“Measures must be taken”

Basel’s security director, Stephanie Eymann (43), has also been affected by the latest escalation of violence: “The attack must be condemned without any ifs and buts.” All concerned circles were invited to a joint meeting on Wednesday to discuss further measures and sanctions. “Everyone agreed that such a massive escalation of violence should not be without consequences.”

Tuesday night’s “individual case” has nothing to do with the package of measures that has been introduced. “But I understand anyone who, given the recent escalation of violence, cannot act quickly enough,” Eymann assures. But that should not obscure where the root of the problem lies: “In the misunderstood ‘fan culture’ of violent circles. It necessitates taking action.”

“That gives little hope for improvement”

“The recent events give little hope for improvement,” says Bernese safety director Reto Nausea (51). “They show a willingness to use terrifying violence.” But Nause thinks those involved are on the right track with the planned cascade model. “It’s important that the league and the clubs are on board this time.”

In ice hockey, the problem of violence was finally under control. But if the clubs support the action plan, then they would also be responsible. “That is why the clubs are now being challenged and have to think about what to do with their fans in the stadium perimeter.”

The critics of the fan violence strategy, on the other hand, need confirmation. “Every time a train carriage is dismantled, the police and government say: something has to be done now,” the federal government said behind closed doors in mid-March. “Only: these are always empty words.”

Source:Blick