The Controversy Surrounding the Police Control at the Zurich Soccer Derby
Before the derby against FC Zurich, the main topic of discussion revolves around the police control that occurred last Saturday. Safety chief Karin Rykart justifies the police containment.
The Incident
During the derby on Tuesday evening, the GC Ultras attempted to take an alternative route to the Letzigrund stadium, leading to a brief moment of chaos among the police officers.
However, with the swift action of the police, including the use of patrol cars and grenadiers, the GC supporters were redirected back on track without further incidents.
The previous Saturday, the city police halted the GC fan march on Duttweiler Bridge to conduct personal checks on nearly 600 individuals.
Public Outcry
- Some fans expressed feeling like they were in prison during the control, raising concerns about privacy and data usage.
- The operation lasted about four hours, with fans unable to access basic facilities like toilets.
- There were complaints of unfair treatment compared to FC Zurich fans who were not subjected to similar controls despite similar misconduct.
Rykart’s Justification
Safety chief Karin Rykart defended the police action, citing the use of loud firecrackers by GC fans as a safety concern.
Rykart emphasized the need to prevent harm to innocent bystanders and clarified that the FC Zurich fans were not controlled because they posed less risk during their march.
She explained that the decision to stop the fan march on Saturday was based on the Police Act, allowing measures to be taken in the face of severe threats to public safety.
Legal Response
Attorney Simon Käch challenged the legality of the police containment, filing complaints of misuse of power, deprivation of liberty, and coercion against the authorities.
Käch criticized the disproportionate response, arguing that peaceful fans were also affected and suggested targeted legal actions against specific troublemakers instead.
Public Support for Legal Action
Käch’s stance garnered support from fellow fans and legal experts, with many commending his efforts to defend the rights of the GC supporters.
Despite the ongoing legal battle, the derby proceeded without incident, signaling a potential shift in how future fan marches will be handled.
FAQs
Q: Why were GC fans subjected to police control while FC Zurich fans were not?
A: The police cited safety concerns due to the use of loud firecrackers by GC fans, prompting the need for containment.
Q: What legal actions were taken in response to the incident?
A: Attorney Simon Käch filed complaints of misconduct against the authorities, challenging the legality of the police operation.