After the derby between Beveren and Lokeren-Temse, riots broke out in the streets of Beveren. The police were taken to task.
Last night, Lokeren pocketed his first victory of the season (0-1). A magnificent operation since it takes place on the ground of rival Beveren, for the first official derby in six years.
After the match, a group of around 50 Beveren supporters tried to reach the core of Lokeren-Temse, but police officers blocked their path. The group then turned against the police and began bombarding security with different projectiles.
Injuries were eventually reported on both sides. The police managed to block access to the Lokeren-Temse car park, but this led to serious clashes. Footage shows masked supporters throwing fences, street furniture, street signs, and even explosive devices and fireworks at police.
Several stadium bans were just waiting for that
Violence on this scale was unprecedented, Commissioner Rob De Jonghe of the Waasland-Noord local police area told Laatste Nieuws. During the riots, one of the supporters threw a large stone at a police vehicle.
Five officers suffered minor injuries, while a sixth suffered hearing damage. Several fans were also injured, including one who had to be taken to hospital. Eventually, police had to use horses and a water cannon to push back the supporters.
Several rioters were arrested, both administratively and judicially, although the exact number of arrests is not yet clear. Many of the troublemakers involved already had a stadium ban and had gathered outside the stadium. Police are now continuing to examine camera footage to identify as many culprits as possible.
