Reports of intimidation by thugs in property sales emerge in Cyprus parliament

Aristos Damianos, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Internal Affairs in Cyprus, reported on October 22, 2026, that individuals are using intimidation tactics to force property owners, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, to sell their land to foreign interests. The incidents, specifically noted in the area behind the old GSP Stadium in Larnaca, involve groups of aggressive individuals, described as "thugs," who pressure residents after initial offers are rejected.

During the committee session, which included discussions on the sale of property to foreign nationals, concerns were raised regarding the transparency of the Land Registry. Allegations were made about "hidden contracts" that obscure the true identity of buyers. Damianos questioned the current oversight, noting that excessive cash offers and physical intimidation are being used to consolidate large tracts of land.

In response to these developments, AKEL General Secretary Stefanos Stefanou proposed a legislative amendment that would mandate the Director of the Department of Lands and Surveys to reject certain transactions. The committee continues to debate the adequacy of existing legal frameworks, as authorities face pressure to implement stricter regulations to protect citizens from these coercive business practices.