During the Easter holidays, the police increased patrols and visibility in public areas to enhance public safety, successfully preventing any injuries from firecrackers. They also executed special action plans to prevent crime, conducted awareness campaigns targeting young people, and seized 5,500 firecrackers while issuing notices for traffic offenses.
What measures did the police take during the Easter holidays to ensure public safety?
The police enhanced public safety during the Easter holidays by:
– Increasing visibility and patrols in public areas
– Executing special action plans to prevent crime
– Engaging in strategic planning to mitigate firecracker-related injuries
– Seizing 5,500 firecrackers and fireworks, charging 12 individuals
– Conducting awareness campaigns targeting young people
– Responding promptly to incidents and disturbances
– Implementing traffic safety initiatives and issuing notices for offenses.
Public Safety and Police Presence
During the Easter Holidays, the police force was a visible presence in public areas and the road network, zealously maintaining the safety of the public and assisting citizens. Their dedication to vigilance and public service meant that no injuries from firecrackers—an often common issue during this period—were reported.
The operational strategy was robust, with specific orders and special action plans vigilantly executed to ensure a secure holiday environment. This focus was especially geared towards preventing crime and significantly minimizing injuries, particularly those resulting from firecrackers and severe road accidents.
Proactive Measures and Community Engagement
The police’s preventive policy involved strategic planning well in advance of the holiday week, with increased patrols and inspections, particularly from Maundy Thursday onwards. This was in response to anticipated activities involving firecrackers and fireworks, as well as to address concerns about bonfires. Churches, both in urban and rural settings, were kept under surveillance as part of these measures. The actions taken were targeted, preemptive, and notably effective, with zero injuries due to firecrackers or bonfires.
Prevention of Firework-Related Injuries
The police set a goal to tackle the use, possession, and trafficking of firecrackers during the Easter holiday. They collaborated with local authorities to remove or safely relocate materials deemed dangerous, such as woodpiles.
The police’s campaign was successful, with no personal injury incidents resulting from firecrackers. In total, around 5,500 firecrackers and fireworks were seized nationwide, and 12 individuals were charged.
Awareness Campaigns
To further mitigate such incidents, the police conducted a focused awareness campaign with other organizations, targeting students and young people and educating them about the dangers of firecrackers and fireworks. The Pyrotechnics Department and Community Policing Division led educational initiatives, delivering lectures at organized gatherings.
The Communication Department at Police Headquarters also contributed by promoting critical thinking and raising awareness about the risks of fireworks through Social Media Channels, using announcements, advice, and informative videos.
Response to Incidents and Operational Actions
The police and fire service reacted promptly to various Easter incidents, including fire extinguishing tasks, handling car fires, and investigating property damage. Notably, on Easter Sunday night, about 100 individuals attacked the police in Hypsos to Erimi with Molotov cocktails and firecrackers. Despite material damage to police vehicles, the situation was brought under control, and one suspect was apprehended.
In Kiti, Larnaca district, police and fire services intervened when approximately 70 young people caused a disturbance, leading to a fire spreading to nearby trees. The police secured the area and managed traffic, eventually restoring order after the youth temporarily fled.
These were among several reports addressed by the police, involving fires, firecrackers, and disturbances throughout Easter Resurrection night.
Traffic Department Initiatives
The Traffic Department took expanded measures to ensure motorists’ safety, focusing on traffic facilitation and accident prevention. Despite the overall smooth flow of traffic, a tragic accident occurred on Easter Monday, claiming the life of a 30-year-old motorcyclist.
Throughout Holy Week, the Traffic Department issued 503 out-of-court notifications for various offenses, enhancing road safety.
Engagement Through Social Media
The police’s use of social media was instrumental in keeping the public informed, with ongoing updates and the sharing of helpful advice and announcements.
Appreciation from the Police Leadership
The leadership of the police force, represented by Chief of Police Mr. Stelios Papathéodorou, extended heartfelt gratitude to the community, local authorities, organizations, and the media for their support in the police’s efforts. He praised the diligent work of all officers involved in the campaign.
The Police Leadership reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its members by continuously upgrading equipment and ensuring their safety and protection to the highest possible extent.
During the Easter holidays, the police worked hard to keep everyone safe. They were visible in public places and on the roads, preventing injuries from firecrackers and crimes. They also seized firecrackers, issued traffic notices, and educated young people about the dangers of firecrackers. They responded quickly to incidents and worked to ensure traffic safety. The police used social media to keep the public informed and thanked the community for their support.
