Baton attack at Nea Salamina event in Larnaca – three injured
Approximately 30 people attacked volunteers of the sports club with batons at the "Ammochostos-Return" stadium. Three men were injured, one hospitalised in Nicosia.
Baton attack at Nea Salamina Fan Day – 21-year-old with facial fracture
Three men were injured in the early hours of Sunday 23 August when a group of approximately 30 people attacked volunteers of Nea Salamina Ammochostos with batons in the area of the auxiliary pitches at the "Ammochostos-Return" stadium in Larnaca. The incident occurred immediately after the club's annual Fan Day event for supporters.
According to Philenews, the attackers approached and struck the victims without any apparent provocation. The volunteers had remained in the area to protect the event's equipment when they came under attack.
Three injured, the youngest hospitalised
Three men aged 21, 23 and 28 were injured in the attack. The 23-year-old, who was struck on the arm, and the 28-year-old, with a head injury, were transferred to Larnaca General Hospital, from where they were discharged. The 21-year-old was transported to Nicosia General Hospital, where he remains hospitalised. According to reports, he sustained a facial fracture; his condition has been assessed by doctors as not life-threatening.
CCTV analysis – suspects wearing AEK Larnaca insignia
The Larnaca District Police is investigating a case of assault, injury and possession of offensive weapons. Authorities are analysing closed-circuit television footage to identify the perpetrators, who are believed to belong to another football club. According to the complaint, among the attackers were hooded individuals wearing clothing bearing AEK Larnaca insignia. The Board of Directors of Nea Salamina stated that the attack was carried out by a group of 40–50 hooded individuals.
Additionally, the club has expressed serious concern about the police response: according to residents of the area, authorities had been informed in advance about the presence of troublemaking elements around the stadium.
Nea Salamina: "We will not remain passive"
The club's press spokesman, Loizos Mouseos, told Philenews that Nea Salamina expects a thorough investigation of the incident from the police. "We categorically and unambiguously condemn all forms of violence," he said, adding that the club awaits further information to form a clear picture. He also stressed that the club's intention is not to "inflame the atmosphere" ahead of the championship's start, but they do not intend to remain inactive.
The Board of Directors of Nea Salamina Ammochostos has filed an official complaint with the police with all available evidence. It demands a complete, objective and thorough investigation, as well as the identification and prosecution of those responsible before the courts. It also expresses solidarity with the injured volunteers and supporters and wishes them a speedy recovery.
Source: Philenews