West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose announced the arrest of the organiser of Lionel Messi’s GOAT Tour event following chaos at Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday.
The Kolkata leg of Messi’s GOAT Tour turned chaotic as fans, who paid high ticket prices at Salt Lake Stadium, began throwing bottles and attempting to breach gates after the Argentine legend departed early.
Frustrated fans vandalised the stadium, blaming poor event management and criticising VIPs and politicians for monopolising Messi’s attention, leaving fans without a glimpse of him.
The turmoil escalated when fans attempted to enter the field to vandalise the tent and goal post. Police used mild force to disperse the crowd.
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Event organiser Satadru Dutta was arrested. Governor Ananda Bose stated, “The organiser has been arrested, and an investigation is underway…”
Following the chaos, ADG Law and Order Jawed Shamim confirmed the situation is controlled. An FIR was lodged, and the chief organiser was arrested, with promises of refunds to fans.
“Normalcy has returned. The investigation is ongoing; the FIR is filed, and the chief organiser is in custody… Organisers promise refunds to fans,” Jawed Shamim informed reporters.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also apologised to fans after the chaotic event.
“I’m deeply shocked by the mismanagement at Salt Lake Stadium. I was headed there with thousands to see Lionel Messi. I apologise to Messi and all fans,” Mamata Banerjee expressed on X.
“I’ve formed an enquiry committee led by Justice (Retd.) Ashim Kumar Ray, with senior officials, to investigate and prevent future incidents. I sincerely apologise to fans,” added the West Bengal CM.
The All India Football Federation expressed deep concern over the event’s chaos, attended by thousands eager to see Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Rodrigo de Paul.
“This was a private event by a PR agency, with no AIFF involvement. The AIFF was not informed or consulted. We urge cooperation with authorities for everyone’s safety,” they stated.
