**Limassol, Cyprus** – A robust, multi-agency operation targeting migrant-owned establishments in Limassol has brought to light a significant number of immigration and labour infringements, resulting in multiple arrests and substantial administrative fines. The coordinated crackdown, which focused on popular barber shops and restaurants, underscored concerns regarding unregulated business practices and the employment of undocumented individuals within the bustling port city.
The operation, conducted on Thursday afternoon and evening, saw the Limassol Crime Prevention Unit (OPE) collaborate with immigration officers, inspectors from the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance, and officials from the Tax Department. Their inspections, spanning key commercial thoroughfares such as Anexartisias, Gladstonos, Franklin Roosevelt, Independence, Omonias, and Apostolou Varnava, aimed to ensure adherence to legal operating hours, licensing requirements, and employment legislation. The checks specifically scrutinised small-scale enterprises, which authorities have identified as frequent sites of regulatory non-compliance.
During the intensive scrutiny, which commenced around 4:00 p.m. and concluded at 10:00 p.m., approximately 50 individuals present at the inspected premises were subjected to checks. The findings were stark: out of 15 barber shops examined, a considerable number were either found to be closed or operating outside their permitted hours and without the requisite licences. Four barber shops, in particular, were cited for these breaches. Furthermore, one restaurant was found to be operating without the necessary authorisation.
The repercussions for these violations were immediate and far-reaching. Six individuals were apprehended by authorities. Three were detained for residing in Cyprus illegally, while the other three faced arrest for engaging in unauthorised employment. Beyond these arrests, the operation identified eight workers who were not formally declared to the relevant authorities, highlighting a substantial undercurrent of undeclared labour.
The financial ramifications for the non-compliant businesses are considerable. A total of €26,800 in administrative fines was levied. These penalties were not solely confined to immigration and employment infractions. Two businesses were also cited for tax-related discrepancies, including the failure to issue receipts and the absence of electronic card payment terminals, pointing to a broader issue of fiscal transparency.
Officials have signalled that this operation is not an isolated event. They have announced that increased inspections will be conducted in the coming period, indicating a determined effort to bring greater regulatory oversight to the small business sector, particularly those managed by foreign nationals and employing foreign workers. The objective is to foster a more compliant business environment, deter illegal immigration and employment practices, and ensure that all businesses operate within the established legal and fiscal frameworks. The authorities’ resolute stance suggests a commitment to tackling both administrative and criminal breaches that undermine fair competition and legal employment standards in Limassol.