Filenews 21 December 2022
With priority given to the protection of citizens, as every year, the Cyprus Police, in view of the festive season of Christmas, New Year and Epiphany, remains committed to the service of society. During the festive days patrols (motorized and pedestrian) and controls will be increased, both on the main roads and secondary road network as well as on commercial and busy roads.
Traffic arrangements – Movement on the road network
Due to the expected increase in traffic during the holiday season, the presence of the Police on the main roads of the cities and on the interurban roads / highways will be increased.
In order to prevent serious road collisions, intensive traffic checks will be carried out throughout the festive season on the entire road network. The intensified checks begin on Friday, December 23 and will last until January 6, 2023.
During traffic checks, there will be zero tolerance for the main causes of serious and fatal road collisions such as speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol and failure to wear a seat belt and safety helmet. Particular emphasis will be placed on other serious traffic offenses, such as negligent overtaking, reckless, dangerous and negligent driving, violation of traffic lights, failure to maintain a normal lane and non-free hands while driving.
Property protection measures
The Police urge the public to be especially careful during the festive season, especially during movements in shopping streets, shopping malls or other crowded places.
Personal bags should be tightly closed and transported in such a way that there is constant eye contact. No personal belongings are left exposed, while money and credit cards are best kept in the front pockets of our clothing.
Thefts from residences
- Alarm systems or closed surveillance systems shall be put into operation, where they exist.
- All doors, windows or skylights must be locked and the keys removed even from the inside. Also, valuable objects, jewellery or other important documents are not left exposed.
- Indications or posts on Social Media, which indicate the absence of residents should be avoided.
Shoplifting
- No large sums of money or other property are left exposed.
- It is preferable for cash registers to be open and without content when premises are closed.
- The serial numbers of the manufacturer's electrical appliances (Serial numbers) are recorded.
- Where there are alarm systems or a closed monitoring system, they must be put into operation.
Car thefts and thefts from cars
- No bags, briefcases, mobile phones, laptops or any other valuables are left in visible places inside the car, even if it is locked.
- Under no circumstances should the car engine be left running when the driver or other occupants are not in it.
- Doors should always be locked and windows should be raised, even if the car is parked in front of a safe place.
- Avoid dark or secluded spots for parking. Wherever there is a garage to be used.
- The keys are never left in the starter or door, even for a short time.
- If there is a need to leave objects in the vehicle, they should be placed in safe areas or in the luggage compartment.
Provision of information to the Police
In view of the above, the public during the festive days is urged to be on standby and to cooperate closely with the Police, while in cases where they become aware of any information or movements of suspicious persons or vehicles during the day or night, immediately inform the Citizen's Communication Line at the number 1460 or contact the direct response numbers at numbers 112 and 199.
