Cyprus police to start using body cameras

Cyprus police are preparing to introduce a body camera system for officers who interact with citizens daily and take part in operational activities.

The Ministry of Justice and Public Order will announce a tender for the purchase of more than 1,000 cameras. The project is estimated to cost around €2 million — this amount includes the devices themselves and software for storing and processing recordings.

The authorities expect the cameras to help increase transparency in police work, protect officers from unfounded accusations and prevent possible cases of misconduct.

Before the equipment is put into use, police officers will undergo special training. Under the law, citizens must be informed when recording begins, if circumstances allow this to be done.

The body cameras may be used during arrests and searches, when pursuing people or vehicles, vehicle inspections, upon arriving at a crime scene, during mass disturbances and while carrying out dangerous operations.

In the future, the system is planned to be expanded, with more police units equipped with cameras, including officers involved in investigations, inspections and maintaining order at mass events.

Recordings may be used in criminal and disciplinary proceedings. Materials unrelated to investigations will be destroyed in accordance with the established rules.