Police Investigate Forced Windshield Wiper Replacement Scheme in Cyprus Following Beating in Timi

Police in Cyprus are investigating a large-scale scheme of forced windshield wiper replacements after an incident in the village of Timi in Paphos district that occurred last Sunday. As a result of the assault, a 47-year-old man was hospitalized and required surgery at Nicosia General Hospital.

According to Phileleftheros, the attack took place at the crowded Sunday market in Timi, when a woman discovered that unknown individuals had replaced her wipers without permission. When she refused to pay for the replacement and demanded her original parts back, the perpetrators claimed the new wipers were “single-use” and would break if removed, insisting on payment.

The 47-year-old man intervened in the conflict and was severely beaten. The attackers fled the scene and are being sought by the police. Law enforcement sources told Phileleftheros that such practices have been reported across Cyprus for several months.

Reports indicate that incidents were more frequently recorded near supermarkets, shopping centers, and other locations with high foot traffic. In some cases, perpetrators requested driver consent beforehand, while in others they acted without warning. According to Paphos police, official complaints are few; most information comes from tips and intelligence reports.