Cyprus Times

Gang Violence Concerns and Criticism of the Police in Larnaca

Published January 20, 2026, 08:11
Gang Violence Concerns and Criticism of the Police in Larnaca

Strong criticism is being directed towards the Cyprus Police following a violent shooting incident in Larnaca. Nikos Loizidis, president of the ISOTITA police union, reported that similar incidents have occurred in the past but were covered up to avoid showing the police's weakness. He highlighted the pressure on personnel, with officers fearing for their safety during night shifts, as a colleague was attacked a month ago without the incident being made public. Mr. Loizidis accused the government of lacking resources and support, stating that the YKAN has only 170 members and the OPE 70 island-wide, while emphasizing that the police are “losing five-nil to the underworld”. He called for an urgent meeting at the Presidential Palace to address organized crime and warned that “the worst is yet to come” if changes are not made.