Police officer dies in clashes before Europa League match

IANS  |  Madrid 

A has died during clashes between fans before Athletic Bilbao's home match against Spartak Moscow at in Spain's city.

The from the Ertzaintza -- the force -- suffered a heart attack, reported on Thursday.

More than 500 officers were deployed for the fixture and reports say at least five arrests were made.

"Our condolences to colleagues, friends and relatives of the Ertzaina deceased in act of service," Police said.

After the game, the club tweeted: "Our heartfelt condolences to the family and companions of the deceased today.

"The shows its strongest rejection of the violence generated around "

Videos of the violent clashes showed supporters firing fireworks at each other on the streets.

European football's governing body said it "strongly condemned the violent clashes".

The clashes came on the same day a Russian, wanted for attacking an England fan during the Euro 2016 riots in Marseilles, was arrested in while travelling to the match in

Spanish offered his condolences and condemned the violence.

"My appreciation to Ertzaintza, for their efforts to protect those who know how to enjoy the sport," he tweeted.

added: "Ultra violence has claimed the life of a public servant - that's enough. will continue with our policy of combating the ultra phenomenon, until its total eradication."

Spartak won the second leg 2-1 but Athletic went through 4-3 on aggregate.

--IANS

pgh/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

First Published: Fri, February 23 2018. 08:00 IST
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