3 fans arrested after Italian Cup final; questions raised over Champions League safety
By APThursday, May 14, 2009
3 fans arrested, shops attacked after Italian Cup
ROME — Three fans have been arrested and five police officers injured in disturbances connected to an Italian Cup soccer final between Sampdoria and Lazio.
With Rome hosting the Champions League final in two weeks, mayor Gianni Alemanno had offered assurances before Wednesday’s match that police would prevent clashes between fans.
However, several stores were attacked in the city and two Sampdoria fans were arrested for being in possession of illegal firecrackers, while a Lazio supporter was arrested for attempting to provoke police officers.
Reports said the officers hurt in the clashes were not seriously injured.
Rome is hosting of the Champions League final between Barcelona and Manchester United on May 27.
Tags: 2009 Uefa Champions League Finals, Arrests, Barcelona, Champions league, Europe, European Union, Events, Italy, Manchester united, Match, Rome, Soc-italian-cup-final-violence, Western Europe