With tighter security measures being put into place at football stadiums, attendees refusing to comply could face serious penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The proposed Bill on the Prevention and Suppression of Violence in Sports Venues mandates the collection of a saliva sample from fans to test for illicit drug use. Failure to provide this sample, or testing positive for drugs, could result in a fine up to €2,000, one year of imprisonment, or both.
Additionally, breath samples will be required to test alcohol levels. Individuals exceeding a breath alcohol content of 39 milligrams per 100 milliliters will be asked to leave the premises. Noncompliance can lead to a month-long imprisonment or a fine up to €2,000.
Those arousing suspicion will face inspection by law enforcement officers on location who also hold the power to perform body searches for hazardous objects. Under the proposed bill, matches can be postponed if there’s a reasonable suspicion of potential disruptive incidents.
The tightening up of security aims to create a safer environment for all attendees and ensure that the spirit of sportsmanship isn’t tainted by the actions of a few.
