Thursday
4th Jul 2024
Dhivehi Edition
Westfalenstadion, the home of Borussia Dortmund
Dortmund, Germany – In a surprising turn of events during the Euro 2024 match between Germany and Denmark, a man climbed onto the roof of Westfalenstadion, aiming to capture high-quality photographs. The incident, which took place on Saturday night, has raised questions about stadium security and prompted an investigation by both local police and UEFA.
The individual, a 21-year-old from Osnabruck, was dressed in black, his face concealed, and carried a backpack. His presence was first noted by police at 10:11 pm local time, shortly after the second half of the match began. The game had already been temporarily suspended due to a lightning storm in the 35th minute.
Video footage from the Mail revealed the man walking in the rafters of the stadium, home to Borussia Dortmund. Authorities, including officers, a drone, and a helicopter, monitored his movements until he was apprehended by German special forces on a walkway at 11:44 pm. He was subsequently handcuffed and searched, although no dangerous items were discovered in his possession. The police confirmed that the man was carrying a camera in his backpack.
Dortmund police emphasized that at no point was there any danger to other individuals in the stadium and that they are currently ruling out any political motivation behind the act. "Initial investigations revealed that the man had already wanted to take photos of prominent buildings at great heights in Herne in April 2022 and in Ulm in May 2024," the police stated.
During questioning, the man asserted that his sole intention was to take "good photos." Despite this, police have launched an investigation into a charge of trespassing, although the man has since been released from custody.
UEFA, the governing body of European football, has praised the swift cooperation of the police, stadium, and local authorities. In a statement, UEFA mentioned that security measures would be "reviewed in all host venues" following the incident, underscoring that safety within the stadium, on the pitch, and at team facilities remains their "ultimate priority."
Germany emerged victorious in the match with a 2-0 win, securing their place in the quarter-finals where they will face either Spain or Georgia on Friday.
This incident highlights the need for heightened security measures at major sporting events, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all attendees.
During questioning, the man asserted that his sole intention was to take "good photos." Despite this, police have launched an investigation into a charge of trespassing, although the man has since been released from custody.
UEFA, the governing body of European football, has praised the swift cooperation of the police, stadium, and local authorities. In a statement, UEFA mentioned that security measures would be "reviewed in all host venues" following the incident, underscoring that safety within the stadium, on the pitch, and at team facilities remains their "ultimate priority."
Germany emerged victorious in the match with a 2-0 win, securing their place in the quarter-finals where they will face either Spain or Georgia on Friday.
This incident highlights the need for heightened security measures at major sporting events, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all attendees.