Politis

Changes to Police Shifts Spark Controversy

Published December 30, 2025, 14:27
Changes to Police Shifts Spark Controversy

The Police Headquarters has issued a circular to all police officers regarding changes to work schedules, overtime, and compensatory leave, as previously announced by Chief Themistocles Arnautis. These changes, which will take effect on January 1, 2026, are causing strong reactions from police unions. According to the circular, officers working a 12X36 schedule, without shift rotation, will have a continuous eleven-hour workday in each two-day work cycle, instead of the twelve-hour day previously in effect. For every 38 worked eleven-hour days, they will be granted one working day as compensatory leave, as compensation for the additional working hours. Police leadership argues that the changes will lead to more staff in departments and stations, reducing fatigue and increasing operational efficiency. However, unions express concerns about potential pay cuts and question the effectiveness of the new regulations. The circular assures that police officers' salaries will not be reduced and that shift, Sunday, or public holiday allowances will continue to be paid as usual. Nevertheless, the unions insist that the changes will have negative impacts on the quality of life of police officers and the effectiveness of the service.