The police have warned the Cyprus Football Association (CFA) that they may stop policing matches if the use of flares, firecrackers, and fireworks continues.
This follows incidents involving fans during the recent Apollon-Apoel football league match, which was also delayed due to severe weather conditions at the Alphamega stadium in Limassol.
In a letter signed by Police chief Themistos Arnaoutis, concerns were raised about pre-match reports of possible disturbances. The letter also warned that the police would request a ban on fan movement if further incidents were anticipated.
Arnaoutis said that despite criticisms, the police had acted responsibly to ensure the Apollon-Apoel match was conducted safely.
However, he stressed that if verified future threats point to potential disturbances by fans of any team, the police will request restrictions on fan movement to protect the safety of other spectators.
During the match, Apollon fans reportedly used numerous flares, firecrackers, and fireworks before each half. The police expect relevant authorities, stadium managers, and security personnel to take necessary measures to prevent these banned items from entering stadiums.
In light of these incidents, the police expressed serious reservations about continuing to provide security if such behaviour persists. They also called on the CFA to strictly enforce new disciplinary measures and to apply appropriate penalties where necessary.
A week ago, Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis called for the expedited legal review of two bills aimed at combating violence in stadiums.
The minister also confirmed that the legal review of the two bills concerning fan violence is proceeding swiftly. He added that the CFA is handling disciplinary matters related to teams whose supporters cause disturbances.
The two bills are expected to be approved in the coming weeks and sent to parliament for discussion and voting.
One bill concerns the operation of fan clubs, which will now come under the purview of the respective sports clubs, allowing them to use their colours, emblems, and symbols. These clubs will be held accountable for any illegal actions committed by their members.
For clubs that prefer not to have organised supporters through a fan club, they may opt out. However, fan clubs cannot be established under a club’s emblem if the club itself does not wish to have such a fan club.
The second bill amends the law on violence in sports venues to allow for alcohol and drug tests to be conducted outside stadiums. The government’s goal is to enable selective checks for substance use among fans intending to enter sports venues.
