Larnaca, Cyprus. The Hunters’ movement has removed a parliamentary candidate from its ballot following allegations he assaulted an assistant referee during a football match. The case is expected to proceed to court on Wednesday.
Arrest and investigation
The 38-year-old, identified as Kostas Nikolaou, was arrested and remanded in custody for three days by the Larnaca district court after the incident. Police are preparing a case file relating to stadium violence offences.
Incident during match
According to reports, the incident occurred towards the end of the match between Rotsidis Mammari and APOP Parekklisia when a plastic bottle was thrown at the assistant referee, followed by an individual entering the pitch and allegedly striking the official. The match was subsequently abandoned.
The assistant referee was taken to Larnaca general hospital for examination before being discharged.
Evidence and witness identification
Police sources said the suspect was identified by both the assistant referee and an on-duty officer. Video footage recorded by spectators has been submitted as evidence.
He is also reported to have initially implicated himself before ceasing cooperation with investigators after consulting a lawyer.
Hunters’ movement response
The Hunters’ movement confirmed the candidate’s removal following an extraordinary meeting, saying it first sought to verify information before issuing a position.
“Any behaviour of aggression, regardless of circumstances, cannot be considered acceptable and is not consistent with the principles, values and ethos that our movement advocates,” the statement said.
The party added that “with this specific action, the candidate in question automatically removed himself from the ballot,” and said conduct conflicting with its principles “cannot coexist with our collective path, regardless of position or capacity.”
What impact do you think this case could have on standards of conduct for candidates and supporters at sporting events?