Mayors in the Dutch province of Gelderland have issued strict warnings to Morocco soccer fans ahead of the World Cup quarterfinal match against France on Thursday evening.
The warnings follow disruptive street celebrations after previous matches, which included traffic violations and noise disturbances.
Arnhem Mayor Ahmed Marcouch expressed strong dissatisfaction with the behavior observed during earlier victory celebrations in his city.
"I have seen things that are unacceptable. Driving very fast through the Steenstraat or sticking heads out of the car window," said Marcouch.
The mayor specifically criticized the continuous honking of car horns late at night, stating that boundaries must not be crossed despite the celebratory mood.
"Honking is highly undesirable," said Marcouch.
Nijmegen Mayor Hubert Bruls supported the stance, urging fans to stay off public roads and show consideration for sleeping residents during the late-night event.
"It is understandable that supporters want to celebrate a success of Morocco together.
But do not do that on the public road and - especially given the time tonight - take into account people who are sleeping," said Bruls.
According to gld.
nl, Arnhem municipal authorities issued very few fines during previous celebrations due to a lack of enforcement capacity at every intersection.
"You really have to observe, for that you need an enforcement officer on every corner," explained Marcouch.
The Arnhem municipality expects personal accountability from fans but has authorized stricter enforcement on extreme behaviors for Thursday evening, including tracking violations via license plates.
"For Thursday evening, should there be something to celebrate, we have tightened the instruction to enforce on excesses," said Marcouch.
To manage the situation, Arnhem plans to deploy extra enforcement officers at strategic locations while urging fans to celebrate lawfully.
"Let's keep it fun and pay attention to compliance with laws and regulations," said Marcouch.
The mayor directly advised supporters to avoid using their vehicles to prevent traffic congestion and dangerous situations.
"Leave the car behind," said Marcouch.
Past celebrations in Nijmegen resulted in severe traffic jams, safety hazards, and noise complaints, leading local police to issue approximately 30 citations for unnecessary honking, driving without seatbelts, and dangerous driving.
"The situation on Saturday was unacceptable and the police will strictly enforce it tonight," said Bruls.
