Nicosia, Cyprus. Former Edek president Nikos Anastasiou has become the first political figure to lose his police escort under a wider review of security arrangements for politicians and state officials. Three officers assigned to his protection will be transferred to other police services from Monday following his resignation from the party leadership.
Review of protection arrangements
Justice Minister Costas Fitiris is reviewing the system for granting police protection to current and former officials. The review was announced in June after he instructed the police security committee to reassess existing risk evaluations.
The committee is expected to submit its findings to the minister, who will forward proposals to the cabinet for final decisions on the level of protection required for each individual.
Other officials under consideration
According to Phileleftheros, authorities are also examining the possible suspension of protection for former Diko president Marios Garoyian. No new escort is expected to be assigned to the next Edek leader.
Proposals are also being considered to remove police escorts assigned to former House presidents Yiannakis Omirou and Demetris Syllouris, subject to cabinet approval.
The arrangements for former president Nicos Anastasiades are under examination, while the possible provision of police protection to newly elected parliamentary figures Odysseas Michaelides and Fidias Panayiotou is also under review.
Police resources
The assessment is based on updated risk evaluations and operational needs. It also considers the resources required for protection duties as police face competing demands related to organised crime, drug trafficking and public safety.