Police Officers at Risk: Request for Taser Use in Cyprus

Growing concern surrounds the safety of police officers in Cyprus, with increasing incidents of violence against them while on duty. Recent incidents include an attack on a female police officer in a hospital, an assault on an officer in Larnaca following a noise complaint, and a vehicle pursuit in Limassol where officers were forced to use warning shots.

The Police Body Branch – Equality has highlighted these incidents, calling for measures to protect police officers. The President of the Equality Police Association, Nikos Loizidis, in communication with OmegaLive, emphasized that discussions have already begun with the Minister of Justice, Mr. Marios Hartsiotis, and the Chief of Police, Mr. Themistos Arnaoutis, regarding insurance coverage for police officers while on duty.

The ISOTITA association is also requesting the granting of a hazard allowance to frontline police officers, as well as addressing the lack of personal equipment. A key demand is the parliamentary approval for the provision and use of tasers (Electrical Discharge Devices) by police officers, with the relevant funds to be included in the budget for the security of the Republic.

Finally, ISOTITA is requesting the amendment of Article 244 of the Penal Code, aiming to increase penalties for those who attack or obstruct law enforcement officers in the performance of their duties.