The Republic of Cyprus administration strengthens controls at checkpoints and airports

The Police of the Republic of Cyprus announced tighter inspections at land checkpoints and airports: entry and exit to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) will be under stricter control. Justice Minister Marios Hatzisotis added that in 2026 the police will undergo restructuring, and the process of Cyprus joining the Schengen Area is approaching its final stages.

The discussion arose during the review of the Ministry of Justice budget in the parliamentary committee. Fileleftheros newspaper ran the headline "Changes in checkpoint and airport controls" on its front page, covering in detail the statements of the Police Chief.

Police Chief Themistos Arnavutis informed the committee about plans to change procedures at land crossings and airports. For better traffic monitoring from the TRNC, 23 recently hired officers will be distributed across the checkpoints. Currently, the security of Southern Cyprus airports is ensured by 70 people.

Arnavutis also noted difficulties in combating crime due to technological gaps in the police force and requested the hiring of IT specialists.

Justice Minister Marios Hatzisotis confirmed the police reorganization in 2026, including updating the call center. He mentioned measures against organized crime and the construction of a new prison block. Regarding Schengen: "We are at an advanced stage, technical requirements are nearly complete."