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Attacks against foreign food delivery workers in Cyprus have surged recently, with eleven incidents reported in Limassol during October 2024 alone, according to Kathimerini's Christos Bouris. These attacks, often involving theft or physical assault, reflect both financial and racist motives, according to authorities. The violence, particularly troubling since last year's xenophobic attacks in Limassol, has raised concerns, prompting government officials and police to take action.
Nineteen attacks have been recorded in Cyprus so far in 2024, with sixteen occurring in Limassol and three in Nicosia. Police have arrested seventeen individuals connected to these incidents, with suspects ranging in age from 14 to 36. Some of the attacks seem to be acts of mimicry, as young people imitate the actions of others in troubled neighborhoods. The majority of incidents in Limassol are concentrated in areas like Polemidia and Ayios Athanasios.
The recent violence led to a meeting at the Ministry of Justice, where officials announced new measures to protect delivery workers. Plans include increased police patrols in high-risk areas, deployment of special police teams, and establishing a direct line of communication for delivery workers to report attacks through the emergency number 112.
In Nicosia, delivery drivers report frequent verbal abuse and occasional stone-throwing, especially in neighborhoods near the General Hospital and Kallithea. While many workers share safety information on social media, some are hesitant to formally report incidents, fearing backlash. Delivery platforms have been urged to collaborate with police to address the issue, but workers say these companies have shown little interest.
Wolt, a major delivery service, recently condemned the attacks on its couriers, emphasizing the need for stronger protections. The company has engaged in talks with local police to explore preventive measures.
Delivery drivers also face theft of their equipment and motorcycles, with stolen bikes often recovered damaged, adding financial strain on freelance workers who cover maintenance costs themselves. The Pan-Cypriot Union (PEA) has advocated for worker safety, highlighting the need for employers to provide and replace essential equipment and to treat assaults on delivery workers as workplace accidents. The union is also pressing for further safety measures, especially in light of last summer’s collective agreement, which mandates employer-provided equipment but lacks provisions for accident liability.
Union representative Neophytos Timinis linked the recent violence to a resurgence of xenophobia, stressing the importance of respect for delivery workers and service providers.
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