Limassol, Cyprus. Eight barber shops were shuttered and two people were arrested during police inspections of 20 premises managed by foreign nationals in Limassol. Police said the operation took place between 5pm and 11pm on Tuesday.
Inspections and reported offences
Police told the Cyprus Mail on Wednesday that inspections revealed eight complaints about offences including operating without a licence and operating without a licence to sell alcohol and tobacco. Checks were carried out in several areas of the Limassol district, including Ayias Fylaxeos, Gladstonos, Franklin Roosevelt, Misiaouli and Kavazoglou, and Apostolou Varnavas street.
Closures and licensing violations
Eight premises were closed, while a further five were found to be violating current legislation. Police said these included two barber shops operating without a licence and three mini markets operating without a licence to sell tobacco products.
Arrests and employment-related cases
Two people were apprehended on charges of illegal employment, while their employer was reported. Police said one person was arrested for identification, with a complaint filed for illegal employment that was later settled out of court with the payment of €4,000.
Checks on foreign nationals and future inspections
Police said 50 foreigners present at the various premises were investigated, with no evidence found that they were illegal residents. Police added that similar inspections would be intensified in the near future.
Agencies involved
Police said the inspections were carried out under the legislation on shop assistants, in collaboration with the labour ministry, the labour inspection department, and an officer from the tax department.
What impact do you think intensified inspections will have on businesses operating in Limassol?