Justice minister urges fans to behave ahead of Apollon-Ael game

Football is a healthy sport and games should not be turned into a hotbed of conflict, Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis said on Sunday ahead of an Apollon-Ael match deemed high risk.

He expressed the hope everything would go smoothly.

In statements to CNA, Hartsiotis said he had been briefed by the police chief in lieu of the upcoming game.

“They have organised their plans so that today both the protest and the football match – which police deem to be high risk – go smoothly without any issue.

“I hope everything will go smoothly.”

Asked to send his own message to football fans he said it should be obvious. “We have repeatedly said football is a healthy sport and we should enjoy it, not turn matches into a fighting ring or a hotbed of conflict.”

Two crisis centres will be operating on Sunday. One in Limassol police HQ in connection with a protest organised by OmoniaM29, and another at Alphamega stadium.

Over 300 police officers will be working from different districts, as will members of the riot police.

On Friday, police announced strict measures were in place for the upcoming Apollon – Ael matchslated for 7pm at the Alphamega stadium.