Philenews

The (In)security in Cyprus in 2026

Published January 19, 2026, 12:26
The (In)security in Cyprus in 2026

An incident in Larnaca indicates a growing audacity of organized crime. Two groups clashed violently, resulting in assaults and shootings, just 100 meters from the Police Headquarters. Similar incidents have been recorded in Strovolos, where unknown individuals emptied a magazine from a military rifle in a residential area. In addition to common crime, there is also a matter of national security. The access of an individual, allegedly acting for a foreign country, to the Presidential Palace and the ability to hold a teleconference with a presidential official reveal weaknesses in the security of telecommunications. Simultaneously, murders and attempted murders suggest that some feel free to violate the law due to the authorities' inability to enforce it. The incident in Larnaca, combined with previous ones, raises serious questions about security in Cyprus. The increase in crime and weaknesses in national security create a climate of insecurity and undermine public trust in the authorities. Tackling crime and strengthening security require immediate and effective action. It is necessary to strengthen police forces, improve security infrastructure, and adopt stricter measures to prevent and combat crime.