Ayia Napa, Cyprus. Ayia Napa Mayor Christos Zannettou said an ongoing police investigation will determine whether allegations made in a Channel 4 documentary are substantiated. He said authorities must act decisively if the claims are confirmed.
Documentary claims and response
Zannettou said the documentary released on Tuesday alleges that people working as staff in businesses are being exploited. He said the claims do not represent Ayia Napa as a whole, describing it as a destination that receives hundreds of thousands of tourists.
Investigation and municipal actions
Zannettou said letters were sent to relevant authorities, including the chief of police, and confirmed that an investigation is already under way, with findings pending. He said the municipality’s position is that such issues must be addressed decisively, with local authorities taking responsibility for matters within Ayia Napa’s jurisdiction to prevent a recurrence.
Accountability and employment rules
Zannettou said he expects to be informed about which business owners and professionals may be making the hires and potentially engaging in the practices described, if the allegations are proven. He also said it must be made clear that young British people should know that after Brexit they are allowed to be employed and work in Ayia Napa.
Awaiting findings
He said any exploitation would be revealed through the video or police evidence, adding that he does not want to judge or prejudge anything until investigations are completed and final results are obtained. He said people travelling from Britain know whether they can legally work in Cyprus, and added that Ayia Napa employers bear responsibility when they hire young people despite knowing it is illegal and irregular to employ Britons.
What steps do you think local authorities should take to prevent illegal hiring and exploitation in tourist areas?
