Lahti brawl investigation widens after police find drugs and fan gear

Police in Lahti have expanded their investigation into a mass brawl between football fans after discovering a bag containing drugs, fan paraphernalia, smoke grenades, and fireworks near the scene, Yle reports.

Six criminal reports have been filed following Saturday’s clash between supporters of HJK Helsinki and FC Lahti. All 48 people detained have since been released.

Charges include illegal masking and property damage. Lead investigator Ville Hahl of Häme Police said not all assaults had been reported, noting that many of those injured appeared to have declined to pursue complaints.

Additional reports involve the use of flares, smoke rockets, and fireworks. The brawl took place at Paasikivenaukio square in central Lahti, where windows of the Iloinen Kulkija bar—a known gathering spot for FC Lahti fans—were smashed during the violence.

Hahl said police had reviewed civilian footage showing pushing and striking from both sides.