Filenews 7 October 2025 - by Michalis Chatzivasilis
For the first time, treatment programs for perpetrators for sexual offenses are introduced, while at the same time the supervision framework for those convicted of sexual offenses and released from prison is tightened.
These are provided for in the plans of the Ministry of Justice as included in the 2026 budget, which was submitted last week to the Parliament.
According to the Ministry, there is planning and implementing the new policing plan, with the aim of strengthening the sense of protection and security of citizens. In particular, within the framework of the existing operational capabilities of the Police, targeted measures are planned and taken that enhance its operational readiness, improve its operation, presence and effectiveness, such as:
- Strengthening the number of members of the Police working on the front line
- Strengthening policing in cities and suburbs by deploying pedestrian and motorized patrols, including static checks
- Autonomy and strengthening of staffing of the Information Management and Analysis Sub-Directorate (YDAP)
- Strengthening the Financial Crime Investigation Sub-Directorate (YDOE) to intensify financial investigations to identify and seize proceeds from illegal activities,
- Establishment of a new team of investigators with specialized knowledge, for the financial audit of persons who have not given rise to the concept of committing a chargeable offense, but seem to possess assets that are not justified by the income they declare to the state.
- Establishment of permanent anti-nuisance teams in the MMAD.
As far as the prevention of terrorism is concerned, it is stated that the proper management and analysis of information is a key point in dealing with all forms of crime, especially organized crime and terrorism.
The Republic of Cyprus, notes the Ministry of Justice, according to experts, is not in the crosshairs of terrorists, and is considered a low-risk country, but it is possible for points of international interest within its territory to be targeted. The geographical position of Cyprus, the instability and lack of basic security in Middle Eastern countries, the recent terrorist attacks in Europe, the presence of British bases and other Western interests in Cyprus, as well as the discovery of hydrocarbon deposits in the Cypriot EEZ have increased the level of this threat. At the same time, Cyprus is geographically adjacent to countries such as Syria, Iraq, Turkey and other countries in the Middle East where extremist or terrorist organizations operate.
Regarding the support and encouragement of prevention and awareness activities on human rights, violence and delinquency, it is planned to strengthen actions against racism and xenophobia, promote a bill to criminalize the dissemination of fake news, implement the institution of Juvenile Probation on the basis of the Children in Conflict with the Law, Law 55(I)/2021 and prepare a National Strategy on LGBTQI issues.
According to data from the computerized warrant system, on 30/05/2024 there were 297.683 fine warrants pending for the total amount of €358.710.017. The largest amounts of warrants concern debts to social insurance, followed by private criminal debts, various criminal offenses, traffic violations, city hall debts, civil debts, alimony orders and minor offenses.
