Filenews 18 January 2026
"Accelerated return procedures for foreigners who break the law," announced the Minister of Justice Kostas Fytiris, against the backdrop of the shootings in Larnaca and other criminal actions. Since this morning, he says, a nationwide operation by the Aliens and Immigration Service and the Police has been underway, as a result of which 30 people have been arrested.
The Minister called on the people to help fight crime. It is very important, he says, to provide information to the Police, even anonymously.
The announcement in detail:
The Ministry of Justice and the Government in general fully understand the concerns and fears of society regarding the daily safety of citizens. Dealing with the situation with the rise in crime is difficult, but there is only one option. The commitment to the fight against organized crime, regardless of origin, form or structure.
Organized crime is a global phenomenon and has been exacerbated in all EU countries and its eradication requires a huge effort. In our country, whether local or foreign criminal organizations must and will be dealt with in every possible way within the current laws.
For foreigners who break the law and participate in criminal activities or reside illegally in the country, (without being justified asylum seekers), fast-track deportation procedures are already in place, within the current legal framework and with full respect for the rule of law.
Since this morning, a nationwide operation by the Aliens and Immigration Service (YAM) to arrest illegals in the territory of the Republic has been underway. As part of the campaigns that have begun and are ongoing, more than 30 illegal aliens were arrested today, while actions are being taken for their immediate deportation.
However, social assistance also plays a decisive role. The provision of information to the Police, even anonymously, is a critical tool for prevention and early intervention and strengthens the collective effort of the state and society against crime.
The House of Representatives, following the positive response of the competent Parliamentary Committee, is expected to support the voting of the critical bills that will be submitted soon, in order to provide the Police with the necessary institutional, legal and operational tools and to be able to carry out its mission successfully against Organized Crime.
The only goal is the safety of citizens in all cities and the countryside of our Cyprus.
