**NICOSIA** – In a bold declaration aimed at eradicating deeply entrenched criminal networks, Cyprus's Justice Minister, Costas Fytiris, has unveiled a comprehensive five-pillar strategy designed to dismantle organised crime, corruption, and extortion rings plaguing the island nation. The ambitious plan, which includes the establishment of a dedicated national investigative agency akin to the FBI, signals a significant shift in the government's approach to law enforcement and judicial reform.
The announcement comes at a critical juncture, with recent incidents, including violent clashes between rival factions in Larnaca and a high-profile police raid in Paphos, underscoring the escalating boldness of criminal elements. Minister Fytiris articulated a clear mandate: to cleanse the country's justice system of any "rotten apples" and restore public confidence, which has been eroded by the pervasive influence of illicit activities. "The country needs to rid itself of organised crime, corruption and extortion rings," Fytiris stated unequivocally. "I am personally committed to cracking down on organised crime, following the law. If there are rotten apples, we want to remove them and we will. It takes patience, planning and programming."
Central to the reform agenda is the creation of a specialised investigative unit, tentatively dubbed the "Cypriot FBI." This agency is envisioned to be equipped with advanced capabilities to tackle complex criminal enterprises. Minister Fytiris indicated that the acquisition of a suitable building for this new entity is nearing completion, with operations expected to commence as early as March. This initiative reflects an understanding that law enforcement agencies must continually evolve to counter sophisticated criminal methodologies and technological advancements.
The five-pillar plan extends beyond a singular investigative body. It encompasses the implementation of robust legislation for the seizure of criminal assets, aiming to strip illicit organisations of their ill-gotten gains. Furthermore, a substantial investment is planned for the construction of a new, state-of-the-art central prison in a 500,000 square metre site in central Cyprus. This facility, projected for completion within five years, will house 1,250 inmates across various security levels and incorporate modern technologies designed to reduce recidivism.
Maritime security is also a key focus, with proposals for an independent coastguard force to be submitted for cabinet approval. This new entity would operate separately from the police, boasting advanced surveillance technology to monitor Cyprus's extensive maritime zone, extending to the edge of its exclusive economic zone. The initiative aims to enhance the protection of critical coastal infrastructure, such as the Vasilikos energy centre, and bolster the nation's maritime defence capabilities. The modernisation of the Fire Service is also included within this overarching framework.
These sweeping reforms are being introduced alongside significant personnel changes within the judicial leadership. George Savvides and Savvas Angelides have recently assumed their roles as the new Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General, respectively. Their early swearing-in, preceding the originally scheduled date, highlights the urgency and the government's commitment to bolstering the integrity and efficiency of the legal services.
Minister Fytiris stressed that while legislative frameworks are being strengthened, operations against organised crime will be conducted with meticulous planning, absolute discretion, and strict adherence to legal protocols. He cautioned that mere social media posts would not suffice for arrests, emphasizing the necessity of concrete evidence and documented testimonies. This methodical approach, coupled with enhanced institutional capacity, signals a determined effort by the Cypriot government to fundamentally reshape its fight against crime and restore the nation's reputation for integrity and security.