Illegal preschool in Larnaca closed after serious allegations

A preschool in the Larnaca district has been officially shut down following a series of public complaints regarding poor hygiene and care conditions. The issue was brought to light by Dimitris Souglis, a member of the Direct Democracy movement, who highlighted that the facility had continued to operate despite having its registration certificate revoked and an order for suspension issued as early as 2024. Souglis noted that parents and staff previously faced threats when attempting to report the unsafe environment.

Maria Kyratzi, representing the Social Welfare Services, confirmed on Wednesday that the facility is now closed. She clarified that authorities had been investigating the site for a significant period before the media coverage, coordinating interventions with the police since August. Several complaints were officially filed in accordance with the law, and legal proceedings have been initiated against the facility's operators in court. Welfare officers had also been actively advising parents to report any observations of problematic conduct to the relevant authorities.

The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding the oversight of early childhood care facilities. Authorities are now managing the aftermath of the closure while the legal process continues to address the alleged regulatory violations and safety breaches that occurred during the period of unauthorized operation.