Police intensify operations as arrests rise following Xylofagou brawl
On July 16, 2026, police announced the arrest of two more Syrian suspects, aged 24 and 25, in connection with a violent brawl that occurred in Xylofagou on July 8. While some reports mention the incident occurred on the evening of July 8, others specify it took place in the afternoon, involving dozens of participants wielding clubs and metal bars. A total of five individuals have been arrested so far, while authorities continue to search for five additional suspects. In a separate, nationwide law enforcement operation, police arrested ten people for various offenses, including fighting and drug possession, following widespread security patrols. During these operations, officers stopped 824 vehicles, conducted 452 traffic reports—162 of which were for speeding—and seized nine vehicles. Additionally, a distinct police operation in Paphos led to 101 traffic reports and the seizure of four vehicles within a five-hour window. Investigations into the Xylofagou incident are being led by the Famagusta Criminal Investigation Department.