In all other countries, the police assign their officers solely to police duties; however, this is not the case in Cyprus, since police officers in our country “are tasked with carrying out the responsibilities of all ministries.” This is what Minister of Justice Costas Fytiris said while speaking on the “Alpha Kalimera” program, adding that 14 laws of the Cypriot state “require the police to take on almost everything.” “From transporting detainees to transporting a person who may have mental health issues. The range of duties the police have is unbelievable,” he noted.
“Roadblocks, patrolling the Green Line, the Energy Center, airports, ports, marinas— the whole of Cyprus is protected and served by the police,” said the Minister of Justice, emphasizing that his Ministry is currently in the process of finalizing a study regarding the total number of police officers needed and how to ergonomically allocate existing personnel, and and subsequently “proceed to the Cabinet to approve the creation of new positions.”
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“All cities want more policing,” noted Kostas Fytiris, explaining that the government is doing everything it can. “However, ‘the rise in crime is forcing us to better organize our frontline units with more personnel, but we also need staff for support functions,’” the minister admitted.
Referring to the Coast Guard bill, Mr. Fytiris explained that it “will include all obligations and activities,” as well as issues related to ship departures. The goal, as he noted, “is to have a service extending from the coastline to the depths of the EEZ that will monitor, inspect, enforce the laws, and coordinate activities.” Until this bill is passed, however, the Minister noted, the existing legislation will be amended to address the requirements regarding sailing bans and anchorage restrictions.
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