Cyprus Police Bust People Trafficking Network, Four Arrests Made
In a significant operation, the Cyprus Police have successfully dismantled a people trafficking network, resulting in the arrest of four individuals. This commendable effort was a collaborative endeavor, with various key state authorities joining forces, including the police, rapid response unit (MMAD), social services, and others.
The police’s astute tactics led to the apprehension of four people of Arab descent, believed to be associated with the network. Moreover, four additional individuals are currently being sought. It has been revealed that the trafficking networks have recently altered their methods, prompting the police to adapt their strategies. As a result, there has been an increase in the arrival of migrants via the sea, particularly since June.
Authorities have posited that the arrested individuals are connected to traffickers operating in Lebanon and Syria. In their pursuit of justice, the police collaborated with the anti-money laundering unit (Mokas), cybercrime and financial crimes unit (MTFU), and other relevant police departments. These concerted efforts led to the identification and location of suspected middlemen and collaborators within the smuggling network in Cyprus.
The arrested individuals, primarily of Arab descent and mostly from Syria, have been residing in Cyprus while maintaining connections with networks in both Syria and Lebanon. This successful operation was facilitated by valuable information received from Lebanon, which was obtained following the interior minister’s recent visit to the neighboring country.
While the government of Cyprus continues to prioritize the dismantling of these trafficking networks and maintains close cooperation with Lebanon on the matter, a surge in the return of migrants from Lebanon has been observed. Notably, the police have emphasized the importance of addressing these smuggling networks, which employ perilous vessels and practices.
With cautious optimism, the interior ministry has reported a positive trend. Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou announced that, for the first time in years, there has been a higher number of irregular migrants leaving Cyprus compared to those arriving. In the last two months alone, 1,788 individuals have departed while 1,646 have arrived—a significant shift.
Efforts are now focused on the Eastern Mediterranean Action Plan presented to diplomats in May. Minister Ioannou believes that utilizing the EU’s diplomatic tools is crucial in persuading and pressuring Turkey to reduce the influx of arrivals to Cyprus from the north. While local measures remain limited, the ministry has recently hired 218 guards who play a pivotal role in identifying human traffickers.
As part of an all-encompassing approach, the deputy migration ministry is expected to be established, pending review by the council of ministers in June. This new ministry will provide comprehensive solutions to combat the issue effectively.
The relentless pursuit of justice against people trafficking networks in Cyprus highlights the government’s dedication to preserving peace and security in the region. The joint efforts of law enforcement agencies, international cooperation, and a commitment to proactive measures will undoubtedly continue to yield positive results in the fight against human trafficking.
