Four arrested and a police officer hospitalized after incidents before the AEL — Apollon match in Limassol

Four people were detained on Sunday in Limassol following incidents prior to the football match between AEL and Apollon, according to law enforcement authorities.

At around 17:15, an hour before the match, about 50 people on motorcycles headed toward the stadium and blocked traffic at the intersection of Navarinou and Irenis streets. One participant ignited and threw a flare, while others used firecrackers. Police officers deployed tear gas.

According to police, one man fired a maritime signal cartridge toward officers; no injuries or property damage occurred. A second shot attempt was stopped by a police officer who detained the suspect. The detainee, a 34-year-old Limassol resident, faces charges of participating in a riot and illegal possession, transportation, and use of explosive devices. A used flare and an unused maritime signal cartridge were seized at the scene.

During searches, a cylindrical device showing signs of cannabis was found on a 26-year-old Limassol resident. During his arrest, he resisted and struck two officers. The suspect was taken to Limassol Police Headquarters and questioned by the anti-drug department before being taken into custody.

One police officer was admitted to Limassol General Hospital with a wrist injury and bruises; medical assistance was provided, and the officer was released. Approximately 50 people who could not obtain tickets remained at the stadium; two of them, aged 39 and 24, were detained for insulting and assaulting police officers after resisting.