Swift action by police forces averted serious disturbances outside sports venues in Limassol and Nicosia late on Tuesday night. Officers moved in quickly to prevent violent clashes between rival football and handball supporters.

Police arrested a 22-year-old man on Wednesday afternoon in connection with the disturbances in Limassol.

Meanwhile, police obtained evidence and arrest warrants against three other men, one aged 32 and two aged 24.

In Limassol, a second-division handball match between Apollon and Omonia 29M at an indoor stadium nearly descended into chaos. At around 9.25 pm, police intelligence indicated that approximately 100 Omonia 29M fans had gathered in the Zygi area en route to the stadium.

Authorities immediately set up roadblocks near the venue, while riot police intercepted the group before they reached the stadium, the fans, many wearing masks and carrying bats and other offensive weapons, confronted officers. In response, police deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd.

The group fled, abandoning four vehicles at the scene. A search of one vehicle uncovered a weapon, and investigations into all four vehicles remain ongoing. During the operation, one police officer sustained a leg injury and required medical treatment before being discharged.

Thanks to timely police intervention and strategic intelligence gathering, major incidents and further injuries were prevented. Officials also noted that potential damage to public and private property was successfully averted.

Meanwhile, in Nicosia, a high-profile quarter-final football match between Omonia Nicosia and Ael Limassol at the GSP stadium saw heightened security measures. Between 7pm and 9pm, before kickoff, a supporter was found carrying two cannabis-laced cigarettes during routine security checks and was arrested on the spot.

After the match, as fans exited the stadium, tensions flared when Ael supporters threw stones at police officers. The attack resulted in minor injuries to two officers and damage to a police shield. Omonia supporters were also targeted in the unrest.

To prevent further escalation, riot police deployed tear gas to disperse the aggressive crowd. The situation was brought under control swiftly, and no further injuries were reported.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining order at sporting events and have warned that stricter measures will be enforced to curb hooliganism. Investigations into both incidents are ongoing, with police expected to review CCTV footage and gather further evidence.

Authorities continue to stress the importance of fan behaviour and urge supporters to respect law enforcement and ensure safety at all sporting events.