The Sovereign Base Areas Police has revealed joint operations alongside the Cyprus Police, United Nations and His Majesty’s Customs and Immigration have taken place over the past month to deter the illegal use and importation of Easter bangers.
With Greek Orthodox Easter now less than two weeks away, police officials confirmed seven operations have taken place since mid-February in the SBAs with more set to follow in the coming days.
So far, due to the ongoing success of the annual campaign, no seizures of Easter bangers have been necessary but multiple arrests have been made for ‘various types of criminality’.
Temporary Superintendent Marcos Petrou, who has overseen the operations in Dhekelia, explained the importance of the various organisations coming together.
He said: “We all know the dangers of Easter bangers and the damage they can cause. In years gone by, we have also seen these illegal fireworks smuggled over the crossing points from the Turkish Controlled Areas, so working with our partners in HM Customs and Immigration, the United Nations and the Cyprus Police, we have been able to combat that issue, and the results show it’s working.”
Another by-product of the joint operations is the opportunity to crack-down on other crimes according to the Superintendent.
He continued: “We have made an additional 10 arrests during these operations, for drugs, traffic violations and unaccustomed goods – largely cigarettes and tobacco – and the Cyprus Police have initiated three cases of its own too.
“It is so important that we have this type of presence so we are able to keep our communities safe and by working together and sharing knowledge, our reach can go far beyond that of the SBAs and we can all work together to keep Cyprus safer as a whole.”
Chief Inspector Tony Demetriou, who is leading the operation for the Akrotiri Division, said: “The period leading up to Easter presents significant challenges and competing demands on policing resources across both the SBAs and the Republic of Cyprus.
“Youth criminality and anti‑social behaviour are recurring issues that can escalate quickly if not addressed through a well‑structured and proactive strategy.
“It is essential that our communities feel safe during this time, and we remain fully committed to dedicating our efforts to achieving this objective.”
In both the eastern and western SBAs, education campaigns have also played a major role in community Easter preparations.
Officers have visited all school levels to highlight the dangers of fireworks and close liaison has taken place with the communities to ensure everyone remains safe on Easter Sunday.
“Like with so many situations, education is key”, T/ Superintendent Petrou explained. “Our officers at both ends of the island have visited schools to make children aware about the dangers of setting these bangers off. You put yourself and others at risk.
“We understand that this is a custom but times change and safety must come first and that is why we are so determined to get this message through to children of all ages.
“We have also spoken the community leaders to ensure that all bonfires are legal and safe. That means we know where they are going to be, who is lighting them and what materials will be used. If these simple rules are followed, then Easter can be enjoyed in the safest possible way.
“We want people to enjoy themselves at this important time of the year, but safety remains the most important thing.”