Newsroom
A coordinated police and inspection operation in Limassol on Thursday targeted barbershops and other businesses linked to foreign management, uncovering a series of immigration, labor, and licensing violations.
The checks were carried out between 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. and focused primarily on barbershops operating across central streets of the city, including Independence, Omonias, Franklin Roosevelt, and Apostolou Varnava. In total, 15 barbershops were inspected as part of an enforcement campaign connected to labor and employment legislation.
Authorities found that the majority of the shops were not operating at the time of inspection. However, four barbershops were reported for running without the required operating permits and for breaching legally defined opening hours. A restaurant in the same area was also cited for operating without proper authorization.
Beyond licensing issues, the operation revealed significant immigration and labor law breaches. Three foreign nationals were arrested for residing illegally in the Republic, while three others of Syrian origin were taken into custody for offenses related to unlawful employment arrangements. Investigators also identified cases of undeclared work involving eight foreign employees across four different premises, resulting in administrative fines totaling €26,800.
Tax compliance was another focus of the operation. Two businesses were reported for failing to issue receipts and for violations related to electronic card payment systems.
Approximately 50 foreign nationals present at the inspected premises were checked during the operation, with no additional offenses identified.
Police confirmed that similar inspections will continue in the coming weeks, with particular emphasis on barbershops and other small businesses where labor, immigration, and licensing violations are more frequently detected.
