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Tag: organised crime

  • Cannabis legalisation — The Case for Cannabis Legalisation in Cyprus: Weighing the Pros and Cons

    Cannabis legalisation — The Case for Cannabis Legalisation in Cyprus: Weighing the Pros and Cons

    The debate over cannabis legalisation in Cyprus has taken a significant turn, as Volt Cyprus introduces a proposal advocating for its regulation. This initiative aims to address the issue of organised crime, which dominates the drug trade on the island. Drawing insights from the experiences of countries like Germany, Malta, and Portugal, Volt contends that proper regulation can enhance social cohesion, safeguard public health, and provide notable economic advantages.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Understanding the Proposal from Volt Cyprus

    Volt Cyprus’s proposal is seen as a bold move within the conservative landscape of Cypriot society. The party intends to foster public discussion on the subject before formally submitting a draft law. According to Phileleftheros, Volt’s approach is to encourage dialogue among citizens, experts, and scientists to explore the implications of cannabis legalisation thoroughly.

    Four Pillars of the Proposal

    • Society and Health: Volt aims to reduce stigma surrounding medical cannabis use by integrating it into the General Healthcare System (GESY). They propose treating addiction as a health issue rather than a criminal one and implementing quality health controls.
    • Economy and Development: The proposal suggests that legalisation could create hundreds of jobs, boost agricultural production, and generate significant state revenue.
    • Environment: Promoting industrial hemp is seen as a sustainable alternative for various industries, contributing to CO2 sequestration and soil restoration.
    • Justice and Youth: The proposal advocates for an end to the unjust stigmatisation of minor cannabis offences, focusing instead on prevention and education.

    Expert Opinions on Cannabis Regulation

    Dr. Giorgos Mikellides, a psychiatrist and Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Nicosia Medical School, supports the idea of regulation. He argues that while cannabis is a psychoactive substance with associated risks, criminalisation does not effectively reduce its use. Instead, it drives users to the black market, which lacks quality control and safety measures. He points out the importance of establishing regulations similar to those for alcohol and tobacco.

    Addressing Misconceptions

    Dr. Mikellides challenges the notion that cannabis serves as a ‘gateway’ to harder drugs, stating that this perception arises from the illegal distribution environment rather than the substance itself. He cites studies showing that countries with legal cannabis regulation experience lower risks associated with such transitions. Furthermore, he compares cannabis to alcohol, highlighting that while both substances carry risks, cannabis has a significantly lower impact on mortality and aggression.

    Concerns Raised by the Cyprus Addictions Authority

    In contrast to Volt’s stance, the Cyprus Addictions Authority takes a more cautious approach. Dr. Christos Minas, the president of the Authority, maintains that cannabis is a narcotic and highlights the potential hazards associated with its use, including acute intoxication and risks to mental and physical health. He presents data indicating that a substantial percentage of emergency department visits for poisoning in Europe are linked to cannabis.

    Alternative Approaches to Cannabis Policy

    Dr. Minas suggests that instead of outright legalisation, Cyprus could explore de-penalisation—transforming personal cannabis use from a criminal to a non-criminal offence, akin to a parking violation. He emphasises the need for careful consideration and public dialogue to determine the most suitable approach for Cyprus, given its unique national and economic context.

    A Broader Perspective on Cannabis Legalisation

    The debate surrounding cannabis legalisation in Cyprus is not merely a local issue; it reflects a broader trend observed across many nations. Countries like Germany and Canada have implemented legalisation, and initial findings suggest that these measures can lead to a reduction in criminal cases related to possession. However, both experts and authorities caution against rushing into legalisation without a well-thought-out framework.

    Potential Benefits and Risks

    Proponents of cannabis legalisation argue that a regulated market could lead to numerous benefits, such as generating tax revenue, creating jobs, and improving public health through controlled access. However, concerns remain regarding mental health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. The need for comprehensive education and responsible use is emphasised as critical components of any regulatory framework.

    Looking Ahead: The Future of Cannabis in Cyprus

    As discussions continue, the future of cannabis legalisation in Cyprus hangs in the balance. Volt’s initiative has certainly sparked interest and debate among the public and policymakers alike. The upcoming open forum organised by Volt aims to delve deeper into the implications of cannabis regulation, providing a platform for experts and citizens to engage in meaningful dialogue.

    Ultimately, the path Cyprus chooses will reflect not only the desires of its citizens but also the careful consideration of public health, economic benefits, and social implications. As the conversation evolves, it will be essential for all stakeholders to approach the issue with an open mind, grounded in scientific evidence and focused on the well-being of the community.

  • Police to Establish Anti-Organised Crime Directorate Modelled on FBI

    Police to Establish Anti-Organised Crime Directorate Modelled on FBI

    Police are set to finalise the establishment of a new Anti-Organised Crime Directorate, modelled after the Greek ‘FBI’, with a projected launch in early 2026. This elite unit, first announced by former Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis, aims to consolidate intelligence and operational powers that are currently fragmented across multiple independent services.

    The new Directorate will report directly to the Chief of Police and will be empowered to dismantle the financial and operational networks of organised crime.

    Anti-organised crime: A Unified Approach to Combat Crime

    In a notable structural shift, several key agencies will be brought “under one umbrella” to eliminate coordination failures that have historically hindered major investigations. The Directorate will integrate:

    • The Drug Squad (YKAN): Leveraging its extensive experience in surveillance and its connection to narcotics financing.
    • The Intelligence Analysis Service: Serving as a centralised hub for evaluating data and identifying criminal patterns.
    • Specialised Operational Support: Tactical members from the Emergency Response Unit (MMAD) will assist in high-stakes missions requiring military-grade training.

    Legislative Challenges Ahead

    The establishment of the Directorate faces a significant legislative hurdle: the absence of a functional legal framework for telephone interceptions. Previous laws were deemed unworkable, prompting the Ministry of Justice to expedite new, supplementary legislation to address these issues.

    Authorities consider the ability to monitor telecommunications as “non-negotiable” for the unit’s success. A new law that came into effect on 11 November has already lifted the anonymity of prepaid mobile cards, enhancing the ability to trace communications. However, officials caution that criminal elements are likely to pursue alternative, encrypted methods of communication to evade detection.

    Preparing for Operational Launch

    Currently, efforts are underway to identify a high-security headquarters for the new unit. The Chief of Police, in consultation with political leadership, will select a director to lead this “FBI-style” force. One of the unit’s strategic advantages will be its “invisible” operations, allowing it to work discreetly while gathering intelligence.

    The Law Office plays a crucial role in finalising the legal vetting of the interception bill before the Directorate becomes operational in January.

    The anticipation surrounding the new Anti-Organised Crime Directorate reflects a commitment to addressing serious crime effectively, with the hope that a more integrated approach will lead to significant improvements in public safety.

  • Turkish Cypriot Arrested at Checkpoint Linked to Serbian Hitmen Case

    Turkish Cypriot Arrested at Checkpoint Linked to Serbian Hitmen Case

    A Turkish Cypriot wanted in connection with the notorious Serbian hitmen case was arrested yesterday at the Agios Dometios checkpoint by Cyprus police. However, authorities were expected to release him shortly after the arrest.

    In the spring of 2016, Cyprus police received intelligence suggesting that the man was involved in transporting two Serbian hitmen from the illegal Tymbou airport to Agios Dometios. This alarming information indicated that the two Serbian nationals had come to Cyprus with the intent to assassinate several individuals, including Alexis Mavromichalis, Iosif Iosif, Christos Demetriou, and Fanos Kalopsidiotis.

    An arrest warrant was subsequently issued for the Turkish Cypriot, and it was executed almost nine years later when he attempted to cross into the free areas at the checkpoint. His arrest was a notable development in a case that had long been shrouded in mystery.

    Despite the significance of the apprehension, Philenews reported that authorities were not planning to seek a court order for his detention. Information available suggested that there were no legal issues arising from the case and no testimony supporting felony charges against him. The passage of time had rendered the circumstances surrounding the Serbian hitmen case considerably complex.

    This latest turn of events has reignited interest in a case that had seemingly faded from public view. The file containing evidence related to the Turkish Cypriot was sent to the law office earlier today, signalling that the story might not be over just yet.