New Police Chief of Cyprus Sworn In

Themistos Arnaoutis has been sworn in as the new Chief of Police of the Republic of Cyprus, alongside the newly appointed Deputy Chief, Panikos Stavrou.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides. According to the President, the mission of the new police leadership will not be easy, as the public "rightfully demands an increased sense of security."

"I urge you to work with minimal statements and maximum actions to enhance the sense of safety in society," the President stated.

The Cypriot leader emphasized the importance of tackling issues such as drug abuse, crime, hooliganism, and corruption.

Nikos Christodoulides also mentioned terrorism, considering the regional challenges, as well as migration, noting that significant progress has been made in combating it over the past 19 months.

In response, the new Chief of Police remarked that there has been no substantial restructuring within the police force over the past 64 years, asserting that "change is overdue and is a pressing necessity."

The new Deputy Chief of Police assured that they will do everything possible to boost morale within the police ranks and enhance the sense of security among the public.

The ceremony was also attended by Attorney General George Savvides, Minister of Justice Marios Hatzioannou, and Government Spokesperson Constantinos Letymbiotis.

It is worth noting that President Nikos Christodoulides returned to the island from New York and immediately dismissed former Police Chief Stylianos Papateodoru and his deputy, Dimitris Dimitriou. The Acting Director of Central Prisons, Charalambos Philippides, was also relieved of his duties.

The personnel changes were prompted by the escape of a convicted murderer serving a life sentence. The fugitive has since been apprehended and returned to prison.