**Police Release Photos of Men Wanted for AEK-Beitar Violence**
The Cyprus Police have released photographs of individuals sought in connection with violent clashes that occurred prior to the UEFA Conference League match between AEK Larnaca and Beitar Jerusalem on July 23. The disturbances took place outside the AEK Arena in Larnaca, prompting authorities to appeal to the public for assistance in identifying or locating the suspects.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the police urged anyone with information to contact the Larnaca Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at 24-804-060, reach out to their nearest police station, or call the Citizen’s Line at 1460. The authorities are keen to gather further information to aid their ongoing investigation into the incidents that marred the football event.
The clashes erupted before the match, as supporters from both AEK Larnaca and Beitar Jerusalem engaged in violent confrontations. Police intervened swiftly to prevent the situation from escalating, deploying the anti-riot water cannon vehicle known as ‘Aiantas’ (Ajax) and increasing the police presence around the stadium. Despite the chaos, law enforcement managed to restore order, allowing the match to proceed as scheduled.
According to police reports, a group of Beitar Jerusalem supporters moved towards a nearby parking area, where they encountered AEK supporters, leading to a physical altercation. This incident followed earlier tensions involving Beitar Jerusalem fans near the Larnaca port roundabout, where police had to intervene and use smoke bombs to disperse the crowd.
The violence reportedly included a disturbing incident captured on video by an Israeli news outlet, which showed a group of fans kicking and carrying a Beitar Jerusalem supporter who was on the ground. The police confirmed that there was indeed an altercation between the fans before the match commenced.
In the aftermath of the violence, a 24-year-old Israeli football fan was fined €1,200 after pleading guilty to charges stemming from the clashes. He appeared before the Larnaca district court on July 24, admitted his involvement in the violence, and paid the fine immediately.
The disturbances not only affected the involved fans but also had repercussions for innocent bystanders. A South Korean tourist couple reported that their legally parked rental car was damaged during the riots. They expressed their concerns about the risks posed to tourists and bystanders during such incidents, emphasizing that they were victims of random vandalism despite having no connection to the events unfolding around them. After filing a police report, the couple noted that they now faced significant repair costs for their vehicle, highlighting the broader impact of football-related violence on the community.
The police investigation is ongoing, with officers working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the disturbances. They are also reviewing video footage and gathering witness testimonies to identify any additional suspects involved in the violence.
As the situation develops, authorities continue to stress the importance of public cooperation in ensuring safety during sporting events and preventing future incidents of violence. The release of photographs of the wanted individuals is part of a broader effort to hold those responsible accountable and to enhance security measures at football matches across the region.