Europol operations against labor exploitation in Cyprus

Between September 14 and 20, 2026, Cypriot authorities participated in the Europe-wide "Labour Exploitation Action Days" operation, coordinated by Europol and the European Labour Authority (ELA). The mission aimed to prevent and combat labor exploitation, focusing on agricultural areas, livestock farms, restaurants, and industrial zones in the districts of Nicosia and Larnaca.

During coordinated inspections of 12 premises, authorities screened 83 individuals of various nationalities. The operation resulted in the identification of one victim of human trafficking for labor exploitation and the discovery of labor law violations involving 19 employees across three employers. Furthermore, three individuals were arrested for illegal stay in the country, and the Department of Labour Inspection filed official complaints regarding the identified labor violations.

This initiative highlights ongoing European efforts to curb illegal working conditions and human trafficking. The authorities involved included the Anti-Trafficking Office, the Aliens and Immigration Unit, local police stations, and the Department of Labour Inspection. The operation underscores the persistent inter-agency collaboration required to monitor and enforce labor laws in vulnerable sectors.