Cyprus to terminate police protection for several former officials

The Minister of Justice and Public Order of Cyprus, Costas Fytiris, has announced the termination of police protection for several former high-ranking officials effective October 5, 2026. This decision follows an updated risk assessment conducted by the police, which concluded that permanent security is no longer necessary for these individuals regardless of their previous institutional roles.

The officials affected by this measure include former Speakers of the House Marios Garoyian, Demetris Syllouris, and Yiannakis Omirou, who will each lose their two-man police escorts. Additionally, the police drivers provided to the wives of former Presidents of the Republic, Elsie Christofia and Androulla Vassiliou, will be withdrawn. Notably, Androulla Vassiliou had already voluntarily renounced her security detail prior to the official announcement.

Changes are also expected regarding the security detail of former President Nicos Anastasiades. Currently protected by 12 officers, his security will be adjusted starting in January 2027. Reports indicate that his personal security team will remain, but the static guard at his residence will be removed following the installation of electronic surveillance systems, with future security provided via regular police patrols.