The government of Cyprus is dealing with several serious police issues at the same time. These include a new effort to allow police to use taser guns, a critical report about a failed security project, and growing concerns about drunk and drug-impaired drivers.
Police leaders are strongly supporting a plan to give officers tasers. These devices are often called "less-lethal" weapons. The police argue that tasers are a necessary tool that can calm violent situations without causing death. A police spokesperson explained that tasers provide an important option between shouting commands and using a real gun. Although the idea was first proposed in 2019 and then stopped, the Justice Minister has now ordered a new study on the subject.
At the same time, the state auditor has published a very negative report about a failed project. For seven years, the government tried to buy anti-drone systems to protect important buildings and airports. The audit found the project was poorly planned and managed. The strict rules for companies wanting to bid for the contract meant many capable firms could not apply. The project was finally cancelled in April 2025, which is a major financial and security failure.
On the roads, a separate problem is getting worse. Police figures show thousands of drivers were caught for alcohol or drug offenses in 2025. In one bad week, four deadly accidents happened. One driver had more than twice the legal alcohol limit and also tested positive for drugs. A senior traffic police officer said the system is too slow, as confirming drug use in a lab can take a month. This delay makes it difficult to punish drivers quickly.
Additionally, to fight complex organized crime, Cypriot authorities are asking Greece for help. They want to learn from the Greek model to create a special police unit that investigates serious cross-border crimes.
Together, these events show a police force trying to update its methods and tools. However, it must also solve internal problems and handle ongoing threats to public safety. The results of the taser study and the response to the audit will show if Cyprus can successfully improve its police service.