Police crack down on e-scooter violations across Cyprus

Following a series of dangerous incidents, including a crash in Kato Paphos on August 7 where two riders fell into rocks near the sea, Cypriot authorities have intensified enforcement of personal mobility device (PMD) regulations. During a nationwide campaign from August 7 to 9, police issued 526 citations for various traffic violations and confiscated 28 devices. This follows an earlier operation between July 31 and August 2, which resulted in 516 charges, bringing the total to 1,042 violations identified in recent days.

Key offenses recorded during the latest campaign included 219 instances of riding in prohibited areas, 116 cases of failure to wear a helmet, and 86 reports of missing high-visibility clothing. Acting Paphos Mayor Angelos Onisiforou emphasized that public safety remains a priority, with local authorities continuing to collaborate with traffic police to prevent future accidents. The enforcement efforts coincide with updated national legislation that has raised the minimum age for operating e-scooters from 14 to 17 years old and imposed stricter safety requirements. Police have stated that daily patrols will continue across the road network to ensure compliance and improve overall road safety.