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An evening of celebration quickly descended into chaos near the Robert Schwint bridge, where approximately fifty individuals initially brought traffic to a standstill. Upon the arrival of law enforcement, officers were met with a barrage of projectiles, primarily from a group largely composed of minors. This confrontation resulted in five police personnel sustaining minor injuries. Motorists, caught in the unexpected blockade, witnessed young people climbing onto their vehicles, with at least one car reported damaged. The agitated crowd subsequently moved deeper into the city, congregating notably around the Place de la Révolution.
Reports indicate that the disturbance extended to several central thoroughfares, including Grande rue, Battant, and rue Courbet, where tear gas was deployed to disperse the crowds. Patrons enjoying evening terraces and other passers-by sought refuge in nearby establishments, aided by quick-thinking restaurateurs, as the gas permeated the air. Residents also reported instances of their electric bicycles being toppled and vandalized, alongside damage to various pieces of urban furniture.
Besançon mayor condemns post-match violence
Ludovic Fagaut, the mayor of Besançon, swiftly condemned these acts of violence via social media. He asserted unequivocally that “nothing can justify exploiting a popular sporting event to engage in destruction, disrupt public order, and instill a sense of insecurity.” Mayor Fagaut further affirmed that efforts are actively underway to identify those responsible, ensuring they will be brought before the judicial system.
Following the Champions League match, an estimated 600 to 800 people were observed moving through the city. While many were simply celebrating, a volatile segment, numbering up to a hundred, periodically turned aggressive. Approximately fifty of these individuals directly clashed with the responding police forces, including units of the CRS who were rapidly deployed to the scene.
As of now, five individuals have been taken into custody in connection with the incidents, comprising four minors and one adult.
