Omega Live

Police Unions Threaten Escalation Over Working Hours Decision

Published January 2, 2026, 16:46
Police Unions Threaten Escalation Over Working Hours Decision

The police unions SAK and ISOTITA have expressed strong opposition to the Chief of Police's decision regarding changes to working hours. Following a meeting with the Minister of Justice, the unions state they are prepared to take drastic measures to overturn the decision, believing it degrades working conditions and reduces police rest days. SAK President Angelos Nikolaou stated that the meeting with the Minister was productive, but lacked substantial discussion on the issue. The union will follow legal procedures to appeal to the competent authorities. ISOTITA President Nikos Loizidis was particularly critical, denouncing insinuations of “corrupt police officers” and “ulterior motives”. He emphasized that the Chief's decision drastically reduces rest days, resulting in a police officer receiving one day off every 76 days instead of every 20. ISOTITA is announcing legal action through European unions and courts, as well as protest events in unpredictable locations and times. The possibility of protests impacting the opening ceremony of the European Presidency on January 7th is not ruled out. The unions state they are determined to defend the rights of police officers, even at the risk of disciplinary or criminal prosecution.