Feb 21 • 19:12 UTC 🇫🇮 Finland Ilta-Sanomat

Torches in the Stands – The junior match between Ilves and Tappara was interrupted

A junior ice hockey match in Tampere was interrupted due to the lighting of torches in the stands.

A junior ice hockey match in Tampere, organized between the teams Ilves and Tappara, was interrupted Saturday evening due to safety concerns after approximately 20 torches were lit in the stands. The event, which was attended by around 300 to 400 spectators, was deemed a security risk by the organizers after the torches were ignited twice during the first period. As a response, police were called in to oversee the situation.

Upon recognizing the potential dangers associated with the flames in the crowd, the event organizers made the difficult decision to halt the match. Following this, both the spectators and the event area were cleared out by the police, ensuring that safety protocols were followed, and approximately 50 individuals were removed from the area. The swift action taken by law enforcement highlights the importance of maintaining safety at public events, particularly in environments where flammable materials can pose serious risks.

The interruption of the match raises broader questions about safety regulations in localized sporting sessions, especially those involving youth teams. Incidents like this serve as reminders of how crowd behavior can influence event management and the need for stricter monitoring in recreational venues. This event was reported by the Central Finland police, showcasing their role in maintaining order and safety at such gatherings.

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