Three weeks after violent clashes marred the MC Alger vs CR Belouizdad derby on November 20 at Algiers’ iconic 5-July Stadium, Algerian authorities have taken swift action.
A national police statement revealed the arrest of 22 supporters, identified through stadium surveillance footage, in connection with the chaos that caused significant damage to the Algiers Olympic Complex.
The arrested individuals face charges of disturbing public order, assaulting on-duty officers, and intentional destruction of public property. Following their court appearances at the Cheraga tribunal, 10 of the offenders were issued committal warrants, while the remaining 12 were placed under judicial supervision.
The derby, historically a fierce rivalry between MC Alger and CR Belouizdad, descended into turmoil with pre-match scuffles resulting in the destruction of dozens of stadium seats. In response, both clubs were hit with sanctions: four matches behind closed doors—two of which are suspended—alongside steep fines and the full cost of repairing the damage.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the escalating tensions surrounding one of Algeria’s most storied football rivalries.
