In Limassol, residents and drivers complain about a persistent beggar

On September 15, 2025, residents of Limassol reported a man who persistently demands "5 euros" from passersby and drivers on central streets and at traffic lights and sometimes behaves aggressively.

Eyewitnesses note that the man most often appears at traffic lights and in the central part of the city. After residents’ complaints, a police unit promptly arrives; the man is detained or arrested but soon released. According to available information, he suffers from mental health problems and has previously served prison time while under medical supervision.

Residents emphasize that their complaints are not aimed at condemning the person but at removing obstacles to road traffic. Drivers insist on coordinated action by all services to prevent dangerous situations on the roads.

The case in Limassol is not isolated: according to the Cyprus Police, 59 episodes of begging were investigated from 2022 to 2025. Authorities indicate that organized exploitation of vulnerable people may be behind many of these cases. Under Cypriot law, begging is an offense, as is harassing drivers and interfering with road traffic.

The task of the authorities and competent bodies is to combine efforts to simultaneously support vulnerable people and ensure safety on the streets.