Police raid at Limassol construction site results in 38 arrests

On November 3, 2026, the Cyprus Police, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance, conducted a major operation at a construction site in Limassol to combat illegal employment and residency. The operation lasted from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., resulting in a total of 38 arrests of third-country nationals.

Authorities apprehended 31 individuals for working illegally at the site, with eight of these individuals also being charged for illegal residency in the Republic of Cyprus. Additionally, nine employers associated with these workers are currently under investigation for illegal hiring practices. During the operation, police also arrested seven other individuals, bringing the total number of detainees to 38. The total fines issued against the involved parties amounted to 180,000 euros.

This sweep is part of an ongoing initiative by Cypriot authorities to address the growing issue of undeclared labor and illegal migration within the construction sector. Investigations into the illegal employment of the workers and the potential violations by their employers are currently ongoing, with further legal actions expected as the cases progress.