German police investigating ‘dangerous bodily harm’ after on-pitch clashes between rival fans

German police have launched a criminal investigation after crowd disorder delayed Saturday’s game between Dynamo Dresden and Hertha Berlin in 2.Bundesliga.

The first half was suspended for around 20 minutes after pyrotechnics were “repeatedly” set off both by sets of supporters at Rudolf-Harbig-Stadion in Dresden. Referee Sven Jablonski subsequently took the players off the pitch.

Fans in the away section then invaded the pitch and clashed with home supporters, who had also clambered over barriers, leading to riot police intervening.

Dresden police confirmed on Sunday more than a dozen criminal investigations into alleged breach of the peace, dangerous bodily harm, property damage and ticket fraud had been opened following the fixture. Police added 750 officers had been deployed for the game.

Dynamo Dresden said club officials had exchanged initial findings with police during the match as part of the investigation.

Dynamo Dresden’s managing director Stephan Zimmermann described the incident as “unacceptable” and damaging.

“Our home games are known for their unique atmosphere,” Zimmermann said in a club statement. “Images like those we saw tonight are unacceptable and massively damage not only our club, but football as a whole in Germany.

“We and numerous other clubs have been advocating for fan interests and a safe stadium experience for months — scenes like these are a real blow. We must and will thoroughly analyse this evening and would like to offer our sincerest apologies to all uninvolved parties who were caught up in such unnecessary actions.”

Following the game’s resumption, Hertha won 1-0 thanks to an 80th-minute Marten Winkler goal.