File Photo.
Twelve people have been arrested for drugs possession or trying to smuggle flares and laser pointers into the Olympic Stadium in Athens during security checks ahead of a European soccer fixture, authorities said Friday.
A police statement said the arrests were made Wednesday, when Panathinaikos hosted CSKA 1948 Sofia for the third qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League.
It said the suspects were aged 17-49, and nine of them were carrying small quantities of marijuana. Another three had laser pointers, used to dazzle visiting players, and flares.
Authorities have stepped up security outside sports venues, particularly during European fixtures, following a string of violent incidents involving soccer fans.
