Philenews

Cyprus Police: New Shift Schedule Sparks Controversy and Revisions

Published January 6, 2026, 05:07
Cyprus Police: New Shift Schedule Sparks Controversy and Revisions

The new work schedule for members of the Cyprus Police, which came into effect on January 1st, is causing controversy and rearranging priorities. The change from the 12X36 shift system to 11X36, while offering an additional hour of rest, leads to a reduction in rest days and financial loss for police officers. The Chief of Police, Themistos Arnautis, insists on implementing the new schedule, aiming to increase the personnel available for policing and prevention. However, police unions express strong opposition, as they believe the new system is unfair to them. The Ministry of Interior has taken the reactions into account and has begun consultations, while the Chief of Police has requested that commanders submit lists of officers affected by the change and propose exceptions for those who should remain on office hours.