Public prosecutors in the capital of Abu Dhabi issued an
order Sunday to arrest those who instigated the riot at the match between the
Al Ain and Al Wahda clubs, warning authorities “will respond firmly” and urging
“sportsmanship among club fans to avoid endangering the lives and safety of
others.”
The statement on the UAE’s state-run news agency WAM did not
offer details on the number of arrested.
Footage posted on social media showed Emirati fans streaming
onto the field in their traditional white kanduras and start attacking players
as security guards rushed to restrain them.
Other video showed groups of men beating and flinging shoes
at each other in the stadium stands. At least one spectator appeared to be
injured lying on the ground as rival fans brawled. It wasn’t clear how many
people were injured in the riot.
The incident marked a rare outburst of violence in this
business-friendly, tourism-focused Gulf Arab sheikhdom. Protests,
demonstrations and political expression are heavily suppressed in the
autocratic country.
Al Ain defeated close challenger Al Wahda in the match 1-0, extending their lead at the top of the league this season to seven points.