Cyprus Authorizes Use of Body Cameras by Police

The Parliament of the Republic of Cyprus has approved amendments to the police law, allowing law enforcement officers to use portable cameras. The bill was supported by 24 MPs.

The new regulation permits the installation of cameras on police uniforms and in service vehicles. They will be used during arrests, searches, pursuits, crime responses, and high-risk operations.

The law also includes measures to protect citizens' rights. In most cases, individuals must be warned when a camera is turned on, and recordings will be stored in encrypted form for up to six months. Unauthorized access to or use of the materials will be considered a criminal offense and can be punished by up to three years in prison.