New Delhi: A nationwide security deployment faced its biggest challenge of the weekend after celebrations marking Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) Champions League success led to unrest in Paris and several other French cities.
Authorities had mobilised around 22,000 police officers ahead of the festivities as thousands of supporters poured into the streets following PSG’s victory over Arsenal in the European final. While most gatherings remained peaceful, officials reported a series of violent incidents that resulted in hundreds of detentions, according to theguardian.com.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said 780 people were detained across the country, including 480 in the Paris region. He also reported injuries to 57 police officers, most of them minor.
The French capital witnessed the largest disturbances, particularly around the Champs-Élysées and near Parc des Princes, where supporters had assembled to watch the match on giant screens. Police carried out several operations to prevent road blockades and respond to isolated outbreaks of violence.
Prosecutors in Paris said 277 individuals, among them 82 minors, were placed in police custody over alleged offences including attacks on officers, theft, vandalism, and public-order violations.
Authorities also reported incidents in around 15 cities outside Paris. In one of the most serious cases, a vehicle crashed into a restaurant terrace, leaving two people injured, including one person in serious condition.
Despite the overnight disorder, French authorities confirmed that official celebrations for PSG’s European triumph would continue. The team was scheduled to attend an event near the Eiffel Tower before being welcomed by President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace.
Television footage showed brief clashes between police and some supporters near Parc des Princes. Reports from France said fireworks were directed at officers during parts of the celebrations, prompting the use of tear gas to disperse crowds.
Officials stressed that the vast majority of supporters celebrated without incident as France managed the aftermath of PSG’s latest Champions League success.
