Larnaca, Cyprus. The Cyprus Institute for Demographic and Migration Policy condemned a violent incident in central Larnaca on Saturday afternoon, warning it threatens public safety. The incident involved a brawl and shooting near Larnaca police headquarters, the institute said.
Institute warning on crime and public trust
The institute said the incident showed organised crime in Cyprus had become more brazen and had surpassed previous limits. It expressed “particular concern” that the rise in violence and crime was undermining the public sense of security and limiting trust in the state responsible for ensuring it.
Link to broader pattern involving foreign nationals
According to the institute, the incident was part of a broader pattern in which a significant number of recent serious crimes, including organised crime, drug trafficking and armed violence, have reportedly involved foreign nationals, including some without legal residence status. The institute said this indicated that “uncontrolled illegal immigration” was a serious internal security issue as well as a humanitarian or administrative matter.
Calls for policing, expulsions and national strategy
The institute urged authorities to take immediate action, calling for increased police patrols in Larnaca and nationwide, full enforcement of expulsion laws against foreign offenders, and a national strategy against organised crime.
Deportation legislation and cooperation
It highlighted recent legislation enabling swift deportation of third-country nationals involved in crimes and said international police cooperation was needed alongside integration policies to prevent social exclusion, while noting that “integration does not cancel obligations” to follow the law.
How do you think the authorities should prioritise measures to address organised crime and public safety in Cyprus?
