Disorder erupted after a recent Champions League football match, beginning near the Robert Schwint bridge where approximately fifty individuals obstructed traffic. Upon arrival, law enforcement officers encountered a group, primarily composed of minors, who began throwing various projectiles in their direction. The confrontation resulted in five police officers sustaining minor injuries. Motorists, caught in the blocked traffic, were startled as young people climbed onto their vehicles. So far, one car has been reported damaged. The group subsequently moved into the city center, concentrating around Place de la Révolution.
Our observations indicate that tear gas was deployed across several streets, including Grande rue, Battant, and rue Courbet. Patrons enjoying outdoor terraces and other passersby sought refuge inside restaurants to escape the effects of the tear gas. Local residents in Besançon also reported instances of their electric bicycles being overturned and damaged, alongside various pieces of urban furniture.
Besançon mayor condemns post-match violence
The acts of violence were swiftly condemned by Besançon Mayor Ludovic Fagaut, who issued a statement on social media. “Nothing can justify exploiting a popular sporting event to cause destruction, disrupt public order, and foster a sense of insecurity,” he declared. Mayor Fagaut affirmed that efforts are underway to identify those responsible, ensuring they will be “brought to justice.”
Riot police (CRS) were deployed to the scene. Following the match, an estimated 600 to 800 people were circulating throughout the city, with roughly one hundred young individuals occasionally engaging in aggressive behavior. Approximately fifty of these individuals directly confronted law enforcement personnel.
As of now, five people have been apprehended in connection with the incidents, including four minors and one adult.
