A migration raid targeting managed barber shops and restaurants across Limassol has resulted in six arrests and tens of thousands of euros in fines for undeclared labour and immigration offences.
The sweep was conducted on Thursday by the Limassol Crime Prevention Unit (OPE) in collaboration with immigration officers. Authorities confirmed that the operation was prompted by concerns over unregulated businesses operating outside legal hours and without valid permits, leading to significant penalties for administrative and criminal breaches.
The operation involved a multi-agency task force, including inspectors from the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance and the Tax Department. During the inspections, which spanned major commercial arteries including Anexartisias, Gladstonos, and Franklin Roosevelt streets, 11 of the 15 targeted barber shops were found to be closed. However, four establishments were reported for operating without licenses and violating mandatory closing hours. Additionally, a restaurant on Apostolou Varnava Street was cited for operating without the required authorisation from the competent authority.
Immigration and employment violations formed the biggest portion of the crackdown.
Police arrested three individuals for remaining illegally in the Republic, while a further three people were detained for illegal employment. In total, eight workers across four premises were identified as undeclared, resulting in immediate administrative fines totalling €26,800. Tax Department officials also intervened at two locations, issuing citations for the non-issuance of receipts and the failure to use electronic card payment terminals.
While approximately 50 individuals were searched during the raids, no further incriminating evidence was found.
The crackdown follows increased scrutiny of small-scale businesses.
Police have announced that such inspections will increase in the coming period.
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