Omega Live

Dress Code Uproar in the Police Force: Order to Wear Ties and Dress Shoes During Confrontations

Published December 29, 2025, 12:13
Dress Code Uproar in the Police Force: Order to Wear Ties and Dress Shoes During Confrontations

A new directive regarding the attire of police officers during confrontations and pursuits has caused disruption within the police force. The order appears to reverse a previous decision by the Chief of Police, Themistos Arnautis, which allowed officers to wear operational uniforms (Rip Stop) instead of suits with ties and dress shoes. The new circular provides for the return of the more formal appearance, which has provoked strong reactions from the police and their union, which accuses leadership of duplicity and unclear instructions. Nikos Loizidis, president of the Police Branch “EQUALITY”, strongly opposed the change, emphasizing that police officers need functional clothing to perform their duties effectively, such as foot pursuits, dealing with clashes, and managing crime scenes. He also criticized the idea of turning police officers into “fashion models” and stressed the need for them to be equipped to protect citizens. The initial change in dress, in October 2024, was made at the request of the police officers themselves, who believed that the operational uniform helped them to be more effective. The new circular, issued in December 2025, appears to indicate a change of direction from the leadership. The “EQUALITY” union states that it supports the operational appearance of police officers, with boots and functional clothing, so that they can meet the demands of their work and act as a shield of protection for citizens. The disagreement focuses on the contrast between the need for functionality and the desire for a more traditional and formal appearance.