Large-scale operation by Cyprus police: 31 illegal migrants detained

The Cyprus Police carried out a major coordinated operation at dawn today to identify and detain third-country nationals illegally residing in the republic.

The raid lasted about six hours—from 06:00 to 12:00—and covered all regions of the island. During the operation, 31 people of various nationalities were detained. Seven of them have already been deported or returned to their countries of origin, while expedited removal procedures are underway for the remaining cases.

Specialized units of the Aliens and Immigration Service (YAM), as well as the Green Line Control and Migration Flow Management Unit, took part in the operation. According to police, such checks are part of a long-term state strategy for migration control.

According to official data, the situation in Cyprus has changed noticeably over the past three years. In 2025, 11,742 people were deported from the island or left the country voluntarily, exceeding the 2024 figure (10,092 people).

At the same time, the number of illegal entries has sharply decreased:

• 2022 — 17,434 people

• 2024 — 6,109 people

• 2025 — 2,444 people

Police emphasize that daily checks and targeted operations remain a key tool in combating illegal migration and ensuring compliance with migration legislation.