A gang of football ultras has stormed a centre with smoke bombs and metal bars in a vicious attack that has left one man seriously injured.
Footage of the group, who are believed to be supporters of Italian professional club Cesena FC, shows around 20 people arriving at the A.S.D Bellaria Monte Recreational Centre while a few people, believed to be the group’s rivals, are visible inside.
Shortly after 11pm on 4 November, the group can be seen briskly walking over to the entrance of the building.
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Suddenly, two smoke bombs are launched through the air.
The group, who all appear to have their hoods up, can be seen flailing metal bars.
Lots of thuds and noise can be heard as more smoke bombs are detonated.
It appears in the clip that the entire group crash through the entrance of the centre at once, armed with metal bars and smoke bombs.
More noise and shouting can be heard and after a couple of minutes, the group comes running out before appearing to flee the scene.
The attack left one man seriously injured.
The 31-year-old remains in hospital after being hit in the head, as reported by Need To Know.
He arrived at the Bufalini Hospital in Cesena with a fractured skull and haemorrhaging.
Ultras are a type of football fans who are known for their fanatical support.
The term originated in Italy, but it is used worldwide to describe predominantly organised fans of association football teams.
The behaviour of such groups includes singing football chants, playing musical instruments like drums, their use of flares and smoke bombs and frequent use of elaborate displays.
All of these tactics are designed to create an atmosphere which encourages their own team and intimidates the opposing players and their supporters.
While ultras generally just show their support for their team, some groups are more extreme.
The incident has shocked the commune of Bellaria, which is in Italy, near to Rimini.
Parts of wooden sticks, a metal chain and the handle of a truncheon were seized by the Carabinieri, Italy’s police force, who intervened.
The recreational centre where this event took place is said to be frequently visited by Cesena football fans.
Damage to the structure has been extensive, with the explosion of bombs leading to deep marks on walls, doors and windows.
The episode sparked a strong reaction from local authorities, who promised to step up security measures and actively collaborate to restore calm and protect the city’s meeting centres.
Investigators are pursuing numerous leads.
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