Nine arrested as police record hundreds of traffic offences in overnight operation

Nicosia, Cyprus. Police arrested nine people and recorded hundreds of traffic offences during an extensive nationwide overnight operation in key urban areas.

The operation aimed to prevent serious crime, maintain public order and increase the public’s sense of safety.

Arrests and premises checks

The arrests involved alleged offences including building burglary and theft, drunkenness, insulting behaviour, causing a disturbance in a public place, illegal stay in the Republic and drink-driving.

Police stopped 620 vehicles and checked 871 people travelling in them during the overnight operations.

Officers also conducted 57 checks on premises as part of efforts to tackle unlawful activity, resulting in nine reports.

Traffic enforcement

Traffic checks resulted in 353 reports for various offences, while a further 18 suspected traffic violations remain under investigation.

Police impounded 21 vehicles as part of their inquiries.

Of the traffic reports, 79 concerned speeding and 25 concerned drink-driving. Police also identified three suspected cases of driving under the influence of drugs following preliminary drug tests.

A total of 338 drivers underwent alcohol tests, while eight drivers were subjected to drug tests.

Continuing operations

Police said crime prevention and enforcement operations are continuing daily through an increased police presence, targeted checks and immediate operational action aimed at protecting the public and maintaining public order.