Police interventions prevent traditional overnight stay by students in Nicosia schools

On the morning of Monday, September 7, 2026, as students returned to secondary schools for the new academic year, local police successfully curtailed the traditional "pinta" custom. This practice typically involves final-year students staying overnight on school premises to welcome the first day of classes. According to Police spokesperson Byron Byronos, authorities implemented proactive measures across several districts to prevent unauthorized access and potential disturbances during the night.

Only three incidents were reported in Nicosia, specifically at the Ethnomartyra Kyprianou Lyceum and the Apostolou Varnava Lyceum in Strovolos, as well as the Agios Georgios Lyceum in Anthoupoli. In these instances, officials addressed minor fire-related incidents, such as a burning trash bin and a small blaze in dry vegetation. Authorities confirmed that no arrests were made, and the situation remained under control without further escalation as the school day commenced.