Discussion on police firearm protocols following the Zakaki incident

Following a recent tragedy in Zakaki, public debate has intensified regarding police firearm policies and mental health assessments. Former Deputy Chief of Police Dimitris Demetriou stated that firearm permits are currently based solely on technical training and successful theoretical and practical exams, rather than psychological evaluations. These certificates are valid for five years and may be suspended by authorities if conditions warrant. Firearms are classified into three allocation categories: temporary assignment for patrols and guarding, permanent assignment for tactical units like MMAD, and individual assignment for officers facing serious professional threats. Demetriou clarified that not all officers carry service weapons. He confirmed that current protocols focus on competency in handling, but the lack of mandatory, ongoing psychological assessments remains a point of public discussion. The procedures aim to maintain professional standards for those authorised to use lethal force.