Despite the directive requiring the Customs Department to maintain a 24-hour presence and conduct inspections at border crossings, an investigation by the Alpha Enimerosi program—which had previously visited the Agios Dometios checkpoint— shows that late at night, inspections are not being carried out, as the officers’ booths appear to be dark and closed.
The video aired today on the show—which Customs Department spokesperson Giorgos Konstantinou was asked to comment on— was recorded last August by the show’s reporter and host, Katia Savva, herself. As she noted, attempts had been made to bring this issue to light in the recent past, but at that time, assurances had been given by the relevant authorities—both the Customs Department and the Police—that the necessary measures would be taken.
In fact, as had been pointed out to her, the need for effective enforcement of controls is becoming even more important, given both the ongoing U.S. reviews regarding the visa waiver program as well as the Republic of Cyprus’s efforts to join the Schengen Area, so as not to unnecessarily expose the country to risk.
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The reporter explained that revisiting the issue was deemed necessary because, despite previous assurances, it became clear that the same pattern was continuing. In response, Mr. Konstantinou described the incidents as isolated, noting, however, that an investigation would be ordered into the reported incidents to determine exactly what had happened and whether the prescribed procedures had been followed. At the same time, he emphasized that the Customs Department is responsible for enforcing the Green Line Regulations, which is responsible for inspecting vehicles and identifying any illegal cargo or products being transported.
“The inspections are selective—as you can understand—they are not conducted on all vehicles. I see the images you’re showing; the message will be forwarded to management, and all necessary measures will be taken,” noted Mr. Konstantinou.
At the same time, the Customs Department’s press officer emphasized the importance of the inspections carried out at border crossings, noting that they are ongoing and yielding results.
“Just as you showed these images with the lights turned off, I can also show you other videos in which, between 2:00 and 3:00 a.m., our officers are out conducting inspections, have made such seizures, and have also found undocumented immigrants,” he noted.
