Feb 7 • 10:38 UTC 🇭🇷 Croatia Index.hr

Dozens of hooligans with clubs waited for Croats on the highway in Austria. They planned an attack

Dozens of masked hooligans armed with clubs were reported waiting on a highway in Austria, planning to attack Croatian fans after a basketball match.

A significant police operation took place on the A2 highway near Traiskirchen, Austria, after numerous drivers reported a group of about 40 masked individuals armed with clubs. The situation escalated around 9 PM when worried motorists alerted authorities to the presence of these individuals, raising concerns about potential violence, including mentions of burning vehicles and chain collisions. The incident occurred shortly after a basketball match between Viennese and Croatian teams, in which the Croatian team triumphed.

According to reports, the masked hooligans were believed to have planned a brutal attack on Croatian fans, targeted in retaliation after the game. It has been suggested that the perpetrators were Serbian fans, pointing to a deeper rivalry between the two groups. This incident emphasizes the ongoing tensions and hostilities that can erupt near sporting events, particularly in regions with historical rivalries.

Fortunately, the police were able to control the situation quickly, preventing any physical confrontations from breaking out. The swift police response illustrates the importance of monitoring fan behavior during sporting events, as well as the necessity of being prepared for potential incidents of violence. As rivalries continue to shape the atmosphere surrounding sports, authorities may need to assess further measures to ensure public safety during such events.

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