Conference League game: 5 suspects detained for violent riots

The Cologne police on Wednesday said it detained five suspected perpetrators involved in the violent riots during the Conference League game between Nice and Cologne on Sept. 8.

According to the report, investigators and the police have been searching flats and houses in Cologne, as well as in the neighbouring towns of Hürth, Pulheim and Bergisch Gladbach.

Cologne's Conference League opener at Nice had to be delayed nearly an hour due to violence between fans at the match.

Local police said that 32 people were injured describing the operation as a "strong sign of the state under the rule of law. The decision now was in Cologne's hand.''

Union chief Michael Mertens however said "we need stadium bans.''

Around 10,000 Cologne fans reportedly travelled to the south of France but their behaviour, namely littering and public urination, had been criticized by the mayor of Nice and his deputy in the build-up to the game.

European football ruling body UEFA has already punished the German side with a fine of 100,000 euro ($99,448.56).

A fan was also ban for two away games for using pyrotechnics, throwing objects onto the pitch and causing disturbances in the stadium.