Newsroom
Police intervened yesterday during disturbances surrounding the football match between AEL and Apollon, resulting in the arrest of four individuals.
The incidents began in the late afternoon, around 5:25 p.m., before the match kicked off. Approximately 50 motorcyclists heading to the stadium disrupted traffic at the intersection of Navarinou and Eirinis streets. During the disruption, one individual ignited a flare and threw several firecrackers.
Riot police responded quickly, deploying chemical agents to regain control. One man attempted to launch a marine flare at officers but did not cause any injuries or property damage. He then tried to deploy a second flare but was restrained by police and arrested on charges including disorderly conduct and illegal possession, transport, and use of explosives. Investigations later identified him as a 34-year-old Limassol resident. Officers recovered one used flare at the scene, and the suspect was found in possession of an unused flare, a firecracker, and a handheld flare, along with other items seized as evidence.
Separately, a 26-year-old Limassol resident was stopped during a routine pre-match fan inspection and found carrying a grinder with traces of cannabis. When officers attempted to handcuff him, he resisted and assaulted two police officers before being subdued and arrested. The officers involved sustained minor injuries; one was treated at Limassol General Hospital for a wrist injury and abrasions and released after receiving first aid.
In addition, about 50 spectators without tickets remained outside the stadium. Two individuals from this group reportedly verbally abused and physically confronted police officers before being detained. These individuals, aged 24 and 39, are both residents of Limassol.
Authorities confirmed that all four suspects are now in custody pending further investigation. The police emphasized that security measures at sporting events remain strict to prevent similar disturbances.
