Cyprus strengthens school security measures following a series of attacks

Concerns are growing in Cyprus due to the rising number of violent incidents in schools. Authorities’ response was triggered by a recent event at Aglantzia Gymnasium (Nicosia), where a group of outsiders attacked students during a school event.

The incident occurred on the evening of October 26. According to the police, unknown individuals entered the school premises and assaulted a 14-year-old student. When the boy’s father came to help, the attackers also attacked him. Both victims were hospitalized: the teenager suffered a broken nose, and the father sustained a finger dislocation and multiple bruises. Police quickly detained several suspects, including minors.

Immediately after the incident, an emergency meeting of the school commission took place with representatives from the Ministry of Education, Aglantzia administration, and police. It was decided to strengthen security control: install CCTV cameras, restrict access for outsiders, and increase the number of guards at school entrances.

Aglantzia Deputy Mayor Andreas Constantinou stated that the situation went beyond ordinary school discipline and requires a systemic solution. He emphasized that the attackers were not affiliated with the school and that such incidents need to be prevented in advance.

The Ministry of Education of Cyprus announced plans to implement a unified response plan for violent incidents in educational institutions. Proposed measures include early security checks, staff training, and the development of emergency response protocols.

Parent associations expressed concern and demanded stricter control measures, including verification of all individuals entering school premises. They also proposed creating a mechanism for regular public reporting on incidents and the actions taken.

Following the incident, Aglantzia Gymnasium introduced temporary restrictions: access for outsiders is allowed only with prior accreditation, and all visitors must present identification. Students are advised to move in groups and report any suspicious activity.

This case serves as another warning: in recent weeks, several similar episodes involving outsiders have been recorded in Nicosia schools, highlighting the need for comprehensive measures to ensure student safety.