Police arrest 17 in overnight crime prevention operations across Cyprus

Nicosia, Cyprus. Police arrested 17 people during coordinated overnight crime prevention operations across Cyprus, authorities said on Wednesday. The operations also resulted in traffic citations, vehicle impoundments and investigations into suspected driving offences.

Arrests and inspections

The patrols targeted key urban areas to prevent serious crime, maintain public order and increase public safety.

Police said those arrested were suspected of offences including illegal stay, carrying a knife, unlawful possession of burglary tools, unlawful possession of property, public drunkenness, causing a disturbance, drug possession, possession of an offensive weapon and assaulting a police officer.

Officers stopped and checked 643 drivers and 184 passengers. They also inspected 37 premises, resulting in four reports for various offences.

Traffic violations

Traffic enforcement checks led to 320 citations for road traffic violations, while police opened 11 investigations into traffic-related offences.

Speeding accounted for 133 of the violations. Police also impounded nine vehicles.

Officers conducted 89 breathalyser tests, resulting in four drink-driving reports. Two motorists tested positive in preliminary roadside drug tests and are under investigation for suspected driving under the influence of narcotics.

Continued operations

Police said similar operations will continue daily, with an increased presence, targeted checks and rapid operational response aimed at preventing crime, protecting the public and maintaining public order.