Nicosia, Cyprus. Justice Minister Costas Fitiris said authorities are focusing efforts on dismantling the leadership of organised crime groups, adding that law enforcement knows who they are and is applying sustained pressure.
Focus on gang leadership
Fitiris said the target is the heads of gangs, describing them as people who protect themselves by using others to carry out crimes while keeping themselves out of the “firing line.” He said authorities know who they are, are exerting constant pressure, and are waiting for them.
Priority on safety and rule of law
Fitiris said his primary priority as justice minister is to strengthen people’s sense of safety and uphold the rule of law, adding that this requires tackling organised crime and all forms of delinquent behaviour.
Police integrity and corruption concerns
Asked whether there is any police cover-up, the minister described the police as the “bastion protecting society and the Republic,” and said there can be no “back doors or traitors.” He acknowledged that isolated incidents of corruption may occur but said they do not reflect the overall picture of the force.
Monitoring state services
Fitiris said organised crime seeks to build connections within state services, including the land registry and the tax department, and said the state must apply monitoring mechanisms to address such issues.
Special task force and asset seizure powers
The minister said a special task force comprised of senior police officers and officials from competent state departments responsible for auditing assets and financial data has been set up. He said the unit follows a “follow the money” methodology and will play a key role in combating organised crime and money laundering.
Fitiris said the task force has the authority to seize assets and “ill-gotten gains” that cannot be legally explained or justified by their owners’ declared income.
What impact do you think the task force’s asset-seizure powers will have on organised crime?
