Freedom For Supporters

We firmly condemn the abuses committed by law enforcement against Petrolul supporters!

In an absolutely abusive and incomprehensible act, the fans of Petrolul Ploiești, who traveled to Botoșani to support their team in the match against FC Botoșani, were victims of unacceptable acts of violence. Although they celebrated their team’s victory peacefully, without any incidents inside or outside the stadium, they were physically assaulted by gendarmes after the match, at a terrace in downtown Botoșani, under the pretext that they had lit a flare. The supporters were literally beaten to the ground by the police forces, and some even suffered fractures.

Although the authorities claimed the intervention was necessary to “prevent an escalation of the situation” and to “ensure public safety,” these explanations cannot justify the disproportionate brutality of their actions. Without any real provocation and under a vague pretext, the law enforcement officers committed an abuse of power, attacking supporters who only wished to express their joy and passion for their team.

This incident once again highlights the problem of excessive use of force in situations that do not require it, violating citizens’ fundamental rights to free expression and peaceful assembly. Such behavior has no place in a society that claims to be democratic and respectful of human rights.

Freedom for the supporters!