Sport | Football
Oman takes action against irate fans
Oman is getting a taste of soccer hooliganism as the nation is gripped by the 19th edition of the Gulf Cup and authorities are dealing with it with an iron hand.
- Staff Report
- Published: 23:58 January 6, 2009
Muscat: Oman is getting a taste of soccer hooliganism as the nation is gripped by the 19th edition of the Gulf Cup and authorities are dealing with it with an iron hand.
Before the eight-nation tournament began, the authorities in Oman had issued a warning against any kind of hooliganism or overt public display.
After Oman's goalless match against Kuwait, the Public Prosecution Department arrested a number of people for violations of law, including damaging public property.
"The suspects are held pending trial after the end of the soccer tournament," a statement issued here through Oman News Agency said.
The Royal Oman Police, in co-ordination with the Public Prosecution Department, has cautioned all citizens and residents and fans of other teams against obtaining materials banned in sports complexes and warned against the holding of protest rallies, which might lead to the occurrence of accidents, traffic jams, damage to public or private property or any type of hooliganism.
The authorities have also clamped down on late night rallies in residential areas, and also on driving stunts, including jumping red lights. While requesting all to co-operate, the Public Prosecution Department vowed to be firm with outlaws and other offenders.
According to eye witnesses, young soccer fans have been zipping through the streets in the outskirts of Muscat and some were also seen indulging in violence after Oman failed to win against Kuwait.
The public frenzy is high in Oman after the hosts reached finals two years in succession. This time they are favourites to win the Cup for the first time in the tournament history.
Sport Editor's choice
-
Winning Desert Classic close to McIlroy's heart
Joint-leader draws inspiration from girlfriend's personal pursuit of perfection
-
Top teams hold on to their positions
Of the strugglers, Emirates continue their climb up the table after some superb performances while Sharjah drop
-
Staking a claim
Mendip bounces back to his best form to win middle leg of Al Maktoum Challenge
