UAE: Arrest orders issued for rioters at Al Ain vs Al Wahda football match

Public prosecutors in Abu Dhabi have ordered for the arrest of all football fans who were part of the riots at the match between Al Ain and Al Wahda clubs on Saturday.

Videos that circulated on social media showed several fans fighting as they jumped from the stands during the Adnoc Pro League title race.

In the game at Al Nahyan Stadium, Al Ain defeated close challengers, Al Wahda, 1-0 to extend their lead at the top of the table to seven points.

The Abu Dhabi Public Prosecution has reaffirmed that it will respond firmly in accordance with the established legal procedures against those who caused the riots and violated the laws and regulations.

Officers have stressed the need for sportsmanship among club fans, and not to endanger the lives and safety of others.

The UAE law calls for protection of all individuals, and sets strict penalties for violating specific laws and regulations in such cases, in order to ensure the security and safety of members of society, said prosecutors.

Abu Dhabi Police also took to Twitter to call on the public to act responsibly when cheering their football teams, and to avoid fanaticism, intolerance on and off the pitches and on social media.

The force also urged those attending the football games to cooperate with officers who are regulating traffic on the roads and entrances leading to the stadium.

ismail@khaleejtimes.com

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