**NICOSIA –** In a sweeping nationwide operation launched early Sunday morning, Cypriot authorities have apprehended over thirty undocumented foreign nationals, initiating immediate deportation proceedings for some and setting in motion the removal process for the remainder. This significant enforcement action, spearheaded by the Cyprus Police and the Deputy Ministry of Migration, underscores a resolute government stance against illegal residency and a concerted effort to combat burgeoning organised crime. The operation, which commenced at dawn and concluded at midday, encompassed all districts of the island, signalling a palpable escalation in the state's proactive approach to national security and migration management.
The crackdown follows closely on the heels of a recent, brazen daylight shootout in Larnaca, an incident that has demonstrably heightened public apprehension regarding day-to-day safety. In response to this violent episode and other outbreaks of disorder, Justice Minister Costas Fitiris declared a zero-tolerance policy towards foreign nationals implicated in criminal activities or disturbances. Speaking on the operation's immediate outcomes, Fitiris stated, "As part of ongoing campaigns, more than 30 undocumented foreigners were arrested today, and actions are being taken for their immediate deportation.” He further emphasised the commitment to swift judicial processes, adding, "Rapid deportation procedures are already being implemented, within the framework of the law and with full respect for the same.”
This large-scale coordinated sweep involved specialist units from the Aliens and Immigration Service (YAM) and the Green Line Surveillance and Migration Flow Management Sub-Directorate, demonstrating a robust inter-agency collaboration. Beyond the immediate arrests, the operation serves as a stark warning to individuals residing in Cyprus without legal status or those engaging in illicit behaviour. The government has unequivocally committed to confronting both local and foreign criminal organisations through all available legal avenues, irrespective of their origin, structure, or modus operandi. For those foreign nationals found to be involved in disturbances, the consequences are severe: immediate arrest, expedited deportation, and inclusion on a permanent "stop list" designed to prevent any future re-entry into the country. Concurrently, calls have been made for exemplary punishment for any Cypriot citizens found to be complicit in such disturbances, highlighting the administration's determination to uphold law and order across the board.
The intensified enforcement measures come against a backdrop of a significantly altered migration landscape. Official data reveals a marked decline in irregular arrivals over the past few years, coupled with a substantial surge in repatriations. In 2025 alone, authorities facilitated the removal of 11,742 individuals, a considerable increase from the 10,092 removals in 2024. This trend contrasts sharply with the figures for irregular arrivals, which stood at 2,444 in 2025, a dramatic reduction from 6,109 in 2024 and a notable decrease from the 17,434 arrivals recorded in 2022. This shift in the migration balance is attributed to a sustained, three-year national strategy aimed at managing migration flows and enforcing residency regulations more stringently.
In the aftermath of the Larnaca shootout, which occurred on Saturday night, additional security measures have been implemented in the affected city. The police announced a permanent augmentation of police presence and the establishment of round-the-clock patrols in Larnaca to assuage public concerns and deter further criminal activity. The Deputy Ministry of Migration has also appealed to the public for greater cooperation, urging citizens to report any pertinent information, including anonymously, to assist law enforcement agencies in their ongoing efforts. The government's robust action signifies a clear intent to restore public confidence in safety and security, while concurrently addressing the complex challenges posed by organised crime and irregular migration.