Macron Vows to Punish Violent Fans

He praises PSG for 'sublime' European title but condemns clashes that left two dead

- 

PARIS - French President Emmanuel Macron condemned on June 1 "unacceptable" violence during celebrations following Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League victory, as he welcomed the triumphant team to the Elysee Palace.

"Nothing can justify what has happened in the last few hours; the violent clashes are unacceptable," Mr Macron said.

"We will pursue, we will punish, we will be relentless," he added, before congratulating the players on their win.

Two people died and police made nearly 600 arrests across France overnight as fans celebrated PSG's 5-0 triumph over Inter Milan in Munich on May 31.

"The violent clashes that took place are unacceptable and have come at a heavy cost: Two people are dead, around 30 police officers and several firefighters have been injured," Mr Macron said.

"My thoughts are also with the police officer in Coutances who is currently in a coma," he added, referring to the town in western France where the officer was struck in the eye by a firework.

French authorities detained 79 people in the second such wave of arrests during celebrations following the Champions League win, the police said on June 2.