Turin, Italy – Rival ultras clashed with fists, kicks, belts and flagpoles before the Torino-Juventus derby on May 24, with police struggling to keep the groups apart.

Police said the two sets of supporters repeatedly attempted to reach each other before the match. Officers intervened to prevent the groups from coming together, but both sides threw stones, glass bottles and powerful firecrackers at police.

Nine State Police officers were injured in the violence.

Despite police lines separating the rival supporters, two groups eventually came into contact and attacked each other with punches, kicks, belts and flagpoles.

Investigators from the Turin Digos unit analyzed photographs and videos from the clashes and identified participants from both ultras groups. Eight people were arrested at the scene, while two others were arrested later based on evidence gathered during the investigation.

A total of 22 ultras have now been placed under precautionary measures, including bans from staying in Turin and requirements to report to police. Another 20 Juventus and Torino supporters have received stadium bans.

The suspects are being investigated for aggravated resistance against police, concealing their identities, throwing dangerous objects during sporting events and taking part in a fight.

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