Foreign criminal organisations are actively operating in Cyprus, as revealed by the Justice Minister during a recent parliamentary meeting. Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis and Chief of Police Themistos Arnaoutis presented a detailed mapping of criminal gang activities across the island, providing lawmakers with insights into the territories controlled by these groups.
Foreign criminal: Insights from the Parliamentary Meeting
The closed-door Legal Affairs Committee meeting took place on Wednesday, where officials showcased a chart that delineated the areas of operation for various criminal factions. While specific organisations and individuals were not named, significant information about leadership structures and connections among different gangs in various cities was shared.
Focus on Organised Crime
Hartsiotis emphasised that the authorities have made considerable progress in identifying those involved in organised crime networks. He stated that the mapping includes details about a foreign criminal organisation operating within Cyprus, highlighting the regions where these groups are active.
Ongoing Investigations and Recent Murders
During the meeting, Police Chief Arnaoutis expressed optimism regarding the investigation into the recent murder of Stavros Demosthenous in Limassol. Lawmakers showed satisfaction with the authorities’ efforts to address such crimes. Hartsiotis noted, “The investigations into the Demosthenous murder are on the right track. We are seeking motives.” He further commented on the timing of the crime, drawing parallels with notable heists, stating, “Even the Louvre robbery occurred in the morning. Crime evolves, and criminals don’t hesitate to act at any time to execute their plans.”
Anti-Organised Crime Measures
The Justice Minister also outlined various anti-organised crime measures that have been implemented since April 2024. One significant initiative is the establishment of an Assets Investigation Branch, which scrutinises individuals whose lifestyle appears inconsistent with their reported income. This move aims to disrupt the financial underpinnings of criminal activities.
Seizures and Asset Freezing
Recent operations have resulted in substantial asset seizures. Authorities have confiscated a range of valuable properties, including a hotel, a house, and vehicles totalling €1.1 million. Additionally, ancient artefacts and a religious icon were among the items seized. Between January 2024 and May 2025, officials managed to freeze or confiscate €1.2 million in cash.
Other significant seizures included real estate properties worth €8.9 million, jewellery and valuables valued at €1 million, and cryptocurrencies amounting to €25 million. Authorities have also frozen £1.8 million and €890,000 in overseas bank accounts linked to ongoing investigations.
