Hartsiotis’ police escort could be withdrawn after security review
Presidential Commissioner Marios Hartsiotis could lose two recently assigned police escorts as authorities review security arrangements for officials.
Nicosia, Cyprus. Presidential Commissioner Marios Hartsiotis could lose the two police officers assigned to escort him this week, according to reports on Thursday. Their assignment comes as a review of security arrangements for officials is under way.
Assignment under scrutiny
The assignment of two officers to Hartsiotis, a former justice minister, became known on Wednesday. Politis published a document signed by the deputy police chief confirming the decision, but reported that Justice Minister Costas Fitiris could reverse it.
The Audit Office examined Hartsiotis’ arrangements after receiving a complaint that two officers normally assigned to the presidential palace had been irregularly seconded to him and that he used a state limousine for personal travel.
After the Audit Office sought explanations from the presidential palace, Hartsiotis was required to use the limousine only for official business. According to Politis, the palace then formalised the officers’ assignment rather than withdrawing it.
Security review
The assignment appears to conflict with recent instructions from Fitiris that police guards be allocated only on security and risk grounds. Politis reported that Fitiris did not make the decision and learned of it through the media.
A review of police escorts for ministers, deputy ministers and commissioners is taking place this week. It is due to extend next week to private citizens who receive police protection.
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