Copenhagen Police Introduce Enhanced Security Measures for Upcoming Derby
Copenhagen Police are implementing extraordinary security measures for the upcoming derby match between FC Copenhagen (FCK) and Brøndby IF on September 1. To prevent disturbances and ensure a peaceful sporting event, a temporary heightened penalty zone will be established around Parken Stadium. In this zone, penalties for certain criminal actions may be doubled. The measures will be in effect on match day from 8 AM to 10 PM and will include areas such as Trianglen, Blegdamsvej, and Østerbrogade.
In addition to the stricter penalties, FCK will hold back away supporters, located in section D of the stadium, for up to one hour after the match. The police believe that these measures will help prevent confrontations between rival fans and contribute to a festive and peaceful match day. “Our assessment is that these two measures are effective tools to prevent confrontations and ensure a festive and peaceful match day for everyone,” stated Chief Inspector Peter Dahl in a press release.
The enhanced security measures are a response to previous episodes of violence and vandalism that have marked encounters between the two teams. For instance, remote-controlled pyrotechnics were used during the last match at Brøndby Stadium on May 12, and during another match between the clubs on April 1, police experienced stone-throwing towards officers.
The match has been rated as a high-risk encounter, prompting police to be particularly vigilant in preventing unrest. The goal of these measures is to allow everyone to enjoy the match in a safe environment. “As soon as we assess that it is safe to do so, the held-back spectators will be allowed to leave Parken,” emphasized Peter Dahl.
This is not the first time that a heightened penalty zone has been implemented for a derby match between FC Copenhagen and Brøndby. However, police have previously faced challenges with the proper enforcement of such zones, which led to legal consequences. For instance, a 22-year-old man who was convicted of serious disturbance following unrest last year had his sentence reduced because the police’s announcement of the penalty zone did not adhere to prescribed procedures.
The derby between FC Copenhagen and Brøndby is set to kick off at 2 PM, and the police encourage everyone to engage in a football event free from violence and disorder.