23 Teenagers Arrested for Involvement in Anti-Police Riots in Cyprus

The authorities of the Republic of Cyprus are calling for immediate action to better equip the police: on Friday and over the weekend, teenage protests took place across the country under the slogan ACAB (All Cops Are Bastards). 23 individuals aged between 12 and 15 were arrested for their involvement in anti-police riots.

The spike in "anti-police" hooliganism in Cyprus began on Friday evening: teenagers created havoc in Limassol, Larnaca, and Nicosia. They set fire to police officers' cars, school buildings, and trash bins, as well as destroyed Christmas decorations.

In total, at least 67 similar incidents were recorded over the weekend. A total of 23 teenagers were arrested.

The President of the country, Nikos Christodoulides, condemned the acts of vandalism and urged parents to take responsibility for the events, as the violence was committed by teenagers aged 13 to 15. It is also noted that some of the rioters were as young as 12.

The situation was discussed at the regional education councils on Monday, which addressed the installation of cameras in schools to prevent ongoing vandalism of school facilities.

The Police Association stated that the causes of teenage anti-social behavior are deeply rooted, tend to grow, and are exacerbated by years of neglect by the authorities.

Another cause of the phenomenon is the ghettoization of neighborhoods, which often leads to clashes and street fights over minor issues.

The association reiterated its long-standing call for the creation of permanent riot control units in every district with trained personnel and appropriate equipment to carry out their duties effectively.

The authorities are currently assessing the damage caused by the vandals.

In the near future, cameras will be installed in five schools, two of which were attacked during the incidents. Security guards have already been placed in most of the schools that were attacked.

School security guards will be required to promptly report any acts of aggression or vandalism to the fire department and the police.