Two Soccer Fans Banned from BC Place for One Year Over Use of Flares

Two soccer fans have been banned from entering BC Place Stadium for one year after using smoke-emitting flares during Sunday's match between Egypt and New Zealand in Vancouver.

Vancouver Police Sgt. Adam Donaldson said that while the use of flares inside stadiums is common in some parts of the world, they are not permitted at BC Place.

He also noted that many soccer fans visiting from outside British Columbia or from other countries may not be familiar with the province's liquor laws, which prohibit drinking alcohol in public places.

Donaldson said that if someone is walking down Granville Street carrying and drinking a beer and is stopped by police, they could face a fine of up to $230.