Two fans aligned with Real Oviedo were detained after allegations tied them to the Symmachiarii ultra faction and an assault on a Real Sporting de Gijón supporter during Pola de Siero’s Carmín festival. The case includes claims of threats, robbery with force, and elements that could qualify as a hate crime, underscoring how football rivalry can escalate into violence.
Police records indicate a formal complaint was filed with the Pola de Siero National Police Station last July. The victim reported being attacked by two men at the Carmín Festival, where the assailants allegedly overpowered him and then claimed the Sporting cap he wore. The injured party sought medical attention for his injuries. The complainant later suggested the suspects may be connected to the Symmachiarii ultra group that supports Real Oviedo, prompting a coordinated inquiry led by the Siero Local Judicial Police Brigade with support from the Provincial Information Brigade to establish the facts of the incident.
Through persistent investigative work, authorities identified two suspects, aged 22 and 34, and confirmed links to the Symmachiarii faction supporting Real Oviedo. Investigators also noted indicators of polarization, suggesting the motive sprang from hostility toward fans of the region’s rival club, Real Sporting de Gijón. The two men face charges including two robberies carried out with intimidation and hate crime elements, with the victim identified as a Real Sporting de Gijón supporter. The case has been examined for potential hate crime and discrimination factors, with prosecutors notified for review.
On August 4, officers from the Siero Local Police Station initiated detentions. The younger suspect, 22-year-old LMM, was released on provisional charges following interrogation. The other suspect, 34-year-old EL, was located in a shantytown area of Oviedo and captured by the Oviedo Provincial Information Brigade on Friday, August 11, before being handed over to judicial authorities after completing necessary formalities. Officials reported that both detainees held irregular residence status at the time of the incident. The matter has been referred to the Delegate Prosecutor’s Office for review as a possible hate crime and discrimination case.
Authorities stress that the investigation remains active, with the objective of holding those responsible accountable for violence rooted in sports rivalry. The ongoing case highlights concerns about organized football supporter groups and the need for ongoing vigilance to protect fans across all leagues and regions. The pursuit of safety in football communities continues to be a priority for law enforcement and public safety agencies in the region.
These events occur within a broader conversation about fan behavior, the role of ultra groups in football culture, and the ongoing efforts by police and prosecutors to address violence linked to sports rivalries. The focus remains on ensuring accountability and preventing similar incidents in future matches and community events.