Chief of Police presents modernization plan for organized crime combat in Cyprus

On September 2, 2026, the Chief of the Cyprus Police, Themistos Arnaoutis, appeared before the House of Representatives to discuss the 2026 Rule of Law report regarding Cyprus. During his address, he detailed ongoing efforts to bolster the police force's ability to tackle serious and organized crime.

Arnaoutis emphasized that over the past two years, the Cyprus Police has been systematically upgrading its operational structures and internal capabilities to align with contemporary European standards. A central element of this modernization strategy is the promotion of the Organized Crime Response Directorate (DAOE). This new unit is designed to enhance strategic coordination, improve the utilization of intelligence, and incorporate advanced technological resources to combat evolving criminal threats that operate across borders.

The initiative reflects a broader push to ensure that law enforcement remains effective in a changing security landscape. The Police Chief highlighted that the force is committed to continuous adaptation to meet modern challenges, ensuring that the response to organized criminal activity remains professional, coordinated, and efficient.