Alpha News

Former MAAD Commander: Cyprus Police Undermanned and Struggling to Combat Organized Crime

Published January 20, 2026, 11:41

Former MAAD Commander Savvas Christou expressed the opinion that the Cyprus Police is understaffed and weakened, making it difficult to effectively combat organized crime. His statement was made following the recent armed clash between criminal gangs in Larnaca, close to the Police Headquarters. Mr. Christou pointed out the low morale of police officers due to the long-standing problems facing the Force, and argued that the Chief of Police's announcements about changes to overtime were wrong, given the increased needs for guarding and escorting due to the Cypriot Presidency of the European Council. Furthermore, he emphasized that organized crime is difficult to suppress due to the involvement of migrants and individuals from third countries. He expressed hope that the next time he is in the Alpha studio it will not be to comment on the death of a police officer or citizen from underworld gunfire.