More than 160 people were arrested in Paris and Lyon following clashes and public disturbances after France’s 2-0 defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup semifinal, broadcaster BFMTV reported on Wednesday.
According to the Paris Police Prefecture, 141 people were detained in the Paris region after violence erupted following Tuesday night’s match. Most of the arrests were linked to the alleged use of firework mortars targeting police officers and emergency responders.
Authorities said no serious injuries were reported during the unrest.
In Lyon, hundreds of fans had gathered at Place Bellecour to watch the semifinal. Following Spain’s victory, small groups reportedly began throwing projectiles, including fireworks, at police.
Riot police intervened to disperse the crowd and arrested around 20 people in connection with the disturbances. Local authorities said those detained were born between 2002 and 2011.
Officials in Lyon also confirmed that the incidents resulted in no injuries or significant property damage.