Italian police deport 54 Ajax supporters armed with "smoke bombs and fireworks"

Italian police have arrested 54 supporters of Ajax carrying weapons on the eve of the Champions League match against Juventus on Tuesday, and will escort them out of the country.

Fans were arrested Monday in buses on the outskirts of Turin.

Police are on the alert after clashes between Ajax and Juventus supporters in preparation for the first leg of the quarter-finals in Amsterdam last week, when water cannons were used by authorities and officials said. dozens of supporters arrested.

Police in Turin said the fans on the buses had also been found in possession of armored gloves, mouthguards and various types of fireworks and smoke bombs.

"We are fighting against all types of violence both inside and outside the stadiums," Interior Minister Matteo Salvini tweeted. "Some DELINQUENTS should never walk in a football field again!"

Salvini, the leader of the far-right party of the Italian League, added that supporters – who have not been arrested – will be taken to the border on Tuesday morning, according to a security decree.

The first stage, which ended in late 1-1, also included a fan who jumped over obstacles and approached Cristiano Ronaldo when the star of Juventus scored.

The UEFA investigation of the incident and Ajax faces disciplinary charges after supporters have thrown objects during the match.

More than 2,000 Ajax fans are expected to attend Tuesday's match at Allianz Stadium.