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Alleged Molestation at Meazza Stadium During Norway-Italy Match
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An investigation is underway following a report of alleged molestation at the San Siro stadium (officially known as Meazza Stadium) during the Norway vs. Italy UEFA Euro qualifying match on November 12, 2024. The incident reportedly occurred in a women’s restroom in the away section.
Reported Incident Details
The alleged incident occurred during the frist half of the match, shortly after Norway’s Andreas Nusa scored an equalizing goal against Italy’s Tommaso Baldanzi (originally reported as Esposito). The Norwegian student, who was attending the match with friends, whent to the restroom in the away section and reported being molested by a cleaning staff member while feeling unwell. She immediately left the restroom and informed her friend, who remained outside.
According to the complainant, the staff member allegedly attempted to assist her due to her apparent distress. However, she perceived his actions as unwanted and inappropriate. The friend immediately alerted stadium stewards, who detained the man until the arrival of the Milan Police.
Conflicting Accounts and Investigation
The cleaning staff member, a 20-year-old man employed regularly at the Meazza Stadium, denies any sexual approach. He claims he was attempting to help the student, believing she was in a critical condition and needed assistance to avoid a potential medical emergency.
Milan Police’s Mobile Squad is currently investigating the claims. Investigators are reviewing security camera footage from the vicinity of the restroom to corroborate the student’s account. They are also seeking potential witnesses who may have been in the area at the time of the alleged incident. The investigation aims to reconstruct the events accurately and build a complete report for the Milan Prosecutor’s Office.
The Prosecutor has initially filed a complaint, but could pursue an arrest warrant if further evidence supports the student’s allegations. Italian law requires significant evidence before an arrest can be made in cases of alleged sexual assault.
Aftermath and victim Support
The norwegian student, despite being shaken by the experience, has returned to her university city with her friends. She had traveled to Milan specifically to watch Norway’s match, which they ultimately won. The evening, intended as a positive experience, was marred by this alleged incident.
this incident highlights the importance of safety and security measures at sporting events, particularly concerning the well-being of female attendees. UEFA, the governing body of European football, has been increasingly focused on addressing issues of harassment and discrimination within stadiums. UEFA’s Social Responsibility program includes initiatives to promote inclusivity and combat all forms of discrimination.
Stadium Security and Legal Context
The Meazza Stadium, managed by Società Sportiva Lazio and FC Internazionale Milano, has security protocols in place, including stewards and CCTV surveillance. However, incidents can still occur, and the effectiveness of these measures is often scrutinized.
In Italy, sexual assault and harassment are criminal offenses under the Penal Code (Codice Penale). The severity of the penalties depends on the nature of the offense and the circumstances surrounding it.
