Thanks to KVHA and Kamares Village Matters for providing a copy of the notes of the meeting.
KVHA NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH POLICE PRESENTATION
POLICE PRESENTATION AT THE KAMARES CLUB, 13th July 2023 at 4:30p.m. Approximately 50 people attended the presentation by police officers Andreas Stylianou and Nicoletta Iakovou.
Neighbourhood Watch
This is going to be expanded everywhere, and everyone is urged to join the scheme and you can then pick up a sticker from Tala Council. For Tala, please contact the local representative, Cathi Delaney, by email to toffee@cytanet.com.cy
In response to Cathi’s question, in absentia, as to why she was not getting as much crime information from the police as she used to, the reason given was that the Community Police Department had just restarted a few months ago, after closure for three years because of Coronavirus. Update on this situation is still awaited
CCTV
Cameras can be installed only on one’s own property. However, a community has the right to apply to the Commissioner of Personal Data giving reasons for placing surveillance cameras on public roads. Paphos Municipality has applied and so far been unsuccessful [so good luck there]. Such a system would have to be installed by a professional security company with the right licence.
Home and Personal Security
The days have gone when one can be lax about security, and throughout the meeting both officers emphasised the need for homes to have effective and reliable security, i.e. an alarm with a monitoring service, CCTV capable of producing clear images, movement-sensitive lighting outside, lighting with timers for inside, robust locks on windows and doors, fencing.
Also to deal only with those security companies that are licensed. It is a false economy to go for cheaper systems and not to have monitoring. Alarms and cameras also help the police to gather more information, such as time of the burglary.
Police records show that many break-ins are through unlocked doors and even small open bathroom windows. Always check that doors and windows are locked when going out, and to upper floors etc when not in use, even when on the premises. There are special locks for windows and sliding doors. Consider fitting a chain to the front door, and always exercise caution before opening it.
It is recommended to keep cash, jewellery and other valuables in a large, heavy, fitted safe. Small safes are too easily removed. The police find that older people in particular tend to keep too much cash at home, and are also inclined to give away too much information. But everyone should exercise caution about disclosing personal information, for example possessions/valuables, absences etc., on sites such as Facebook (including not posting photos if away), or discussing in public places where conversations may too easily be overheard.
Usually, break-ins are at properties where it is known the occupiers are absent. Cooperate with neighbours, by checking on each other’s homes during absences, removing leaflets, mail etc., and generally keeping an eye open. Make a note of anyone or anything suspicious (eg a vehicle registration number, colour, make and model), which helps the police. It is a sensible precaution also to have a neighbour to call on in case of injury or other emergency
Dealing with an Intruder
Members of the public should never expose themselves to danger. And must never take the law into their own hands. If being threatened or attacked, then appropriate but not excessive force is allowed in order to defend oneself. If excessive force is established, the occupier could face criminal charges. Likewise, security-company personnel and also the police.
Profile of Typical Burglar
There is no specific pattern as to culture, ethnicity, age, or gender. Also, because of the economic situation, anyone could be a burglar.
Statistics of Violent and Non-Violent Crime
Local police cannot provide this information: it is maintained by headquarters. But criminality, not only burglaries, is growing and much is drug related.
Sentencing
A burglar for example can be caught many times and, despite evidence from witnesses, DNA and finger prints, be given a lenient sentence. Courts take into account excuses such as personal/family problems. There is also a pattern of those with a history of crime who might get two years in prison, repeating the offences on release. It is necessary to put pressure on the government to change the law.
Deporting of Foreign Criminals
This is the decision of the Ministry of Interior. However, such criminals can be deported only to return through the buffer zone.
Recruitment of More Police
There has been more hiring of recruits, but they have to undergo three years’ training at the Police Academy. Therefore, it is a slow process.
Private Security Firms
These must be properly licensed. The following website shows the latest approved companies: https://www.police.gov.cy/police/police.nsf/0/7e39ea829e48410bc225852200604063/$FILE/idiotikagrafia%207-7-2023.pdf
The property owner or tenant must do due diligence to ensure that (a) the security company has the right licence and (b) has the licensed personnel to perform their duties.
The only weapon a security officer is allowed is a baton, which may only be used for defence.
Kamares
This area is known to have many unoccupied properties and to have a labyrinth of streets. We can make it less of a target by making our homes as secure as possible - and by being alert to anything suspicious.
In Conclusion
Thanks were extended to
Andreas and Nicoletta. It is good to know that the police are “with us” and
available for any situation. And although much of the advice, especially about
home security, is already known, it was useful to have this re-emphasised. The
meeting also served to reinforce relations with the police, and to demonstrate
to them the concern of residents.
