Romanian Fans Detained Under Fan Violence Laws

Eight Romanian football fans were arrested in Greece after weapons were found in their van. Traveling to a Europa League match between Steaua Bucharest and PAOK, the fans faced stricter laws targeting fan violence. They will appear in court, facing weapons charges and possible further legal consequences.

Authorities in Greece have detained eight Romanian football enthusiasts traveling to a Europa League match after weapons were discovered in their possession. The incident took place at the Promachonas border crossing, where their vehicles were stopped.

The fans, who were en route to Thessaloniki for a match involving Steaua Bucharest and PAOK, were caught with a retractable baton and a knife. Such discoveries led to their immediate arrest under Greece's stringent fan violence legislation.

Ranging from 31 to 54 years old, the fans face initial charges related to violating weapons laws. Greek authorities have emphasized their ongoing commitment to eradicating fan violence, a longstanding issue in the country's sports culture.

(With inputs from agencies.)