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Barcelona accuses police of disproportionate force on fans

BBC Sport Football •
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FC Barcelona has accused police of using 'disproportionate' force against their fans before Sunday's 5-0 win at Elche. Videos on social media show confrontations between police and fans queuing to enter Estadio Martinez Valero in Elche, Alicante. Barcelona condemned the excessive force used to detain one supporter, stating the procedure 'lacked the necessary justification and appropriateness.' The club also accused police of confiscating Estelada flags, which are legally endorsed symbols of Catalan independence.

Barcelona stated that displaying the Estelada 'cannot in itself be considered an incitement to hatred or violence,' emphasizing it is a legitimate exercise of freedom of expression. Raphinha and Fermin Lopez both scored twice in the victory. BBC Sport has contacted local police and the regional government for comment.