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Dinamo Zagreb defends strict security checks ahead of Celtic match

29. November 2024
(foto: Uradni Twitter profil kluba/zveze)
Dinamo Zagreb will continue enforcing strict fan searches for Celtic's Champions League visit, despite UEFA investigating complaints from Borussia Dortmund fans over alleged mistreatment at Maksimir Stadium.

Dinamo Zagreb has confirmed they will not alter their rigorous security procedures ahead of Celtic’s upcoming Champions League match. The announcement follows an ongoing UEFA investigation into complaints from Borussia Dortmund supporters, who alleged mistreatment during their visit to Maksimir Stadium.

Earlier this month, Borussia Dortmund filed an official complaint with UEFA, accusing Dinamo’s security staff of strip-searching and manhandling some of the 2,500 traveling fans. UEFA subsequently launched a formal inquiry into the matter. The controversy has raised concerns among Celtic fans traveling to Croatia next month.

Despite the backlash, Dinamo Zagreb defended their security measures, stating that their stewards and police acted professionally and in compliance with Croatian law and international public safety standards. In a statement, the club emphasized that ensuring the safety of all fans is their top priority.

"The safety of all fans and spectators, regardless of their affiliation, is the priority of our club. The security services and the police acted in accordance with Croatian legislation and international standards for securing public gatherings," the statement read.

Dinamo elaborated on their inspection process, stating that detailed searches are necessary to prevent prohibited items, such as pyrotechnics, from entering the stadium. "Based on the experience of numerous international matches, security services and the police are aware of the creative ways in which fans try to bring in pyrotechnic devices, and for this reason, detailed inspections are necessary," the club added.

While defending their procedures, Dinamo also claimed to have confiscated several prohibited items from Dortmund fans during the last match. The club noted that photographic evidence of the items has been submitted to relevant authorities to validate their actions.

Dinamo assured that their inspections respected the dignity and privacy of all individuals. "The privacy of each individual was protected in the best possible way, with full understanding of the sensitivity of such procedures," they said.

The Croatian champions reaffirmed their commitment to continuing these thorough checks at future matches, including the clash with Celtic, to ensure the safety of everyone present at the stadium.

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