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Residents of the Anglisides neighborhood in Larnaca report living under constant threat due to repeated acts of vandalism and violence, largely carried out by minors. According to locals, the young perpetrators appear fully aware of legal loopholes that prevent authorities from taking strong action.
Eyewitnesses say the situation recently escalated over three consecutive nights, during which homes suffered extensive damage, including broken windows, doors, and aluminum frames. Large stones and bricks were thrown, creating a serious risk of injury. “They could have killed someone,” a resident told 24news, describing the frightening attacks.
From minor mischief to dangerous behavior
Locals explain that the problem began years ago as relatively harmless pranks, like throwing small stones or fruit. Over time, however, the behavior has become increasingly dangerous. “It used to be just little stones. Now they’re throwing bricks. Each year it gets worse,” a resident said.
The incidents affect entire streets, not just individual homes. Many residents, particularly elderly people and those with serious health issues, are afraid to report the attacks or speak to police. Some cases have been particularly severe, such as damage to the home of a cancer patient or repairs exceeding 1,000 euros at an elderly couple’s house.
Minors exploit legal protections
A major concern is that the minors reportedly taunt residents, saying: “I’m underage; you can’t do anything to me.” Repeated calls to the police have yielded limited results, with officers admitting that the law restricts their ability to intervene. Some minors were briefly detained but released with their parents and lawyers present, after which the cycle of attacks continued.
Psychological toll on residents
Beyond property damage, the ongoing incidents have caused significant stress, particularly for older residents and those with health problems. One resident explained that his wife, who has heart issues, stays awake at night, constantly watching the windows in fear of further attacks. Many locals worry that serious injury or worse may occur before stronger measures are taken.
Community concerns and calls for action
Residents report that the minors frequently gather near the local church to collect stones before launching attacks on nearby homes. While the police have conducted searches in response to complaints, no arrests have been made to date.
Residents are calling for urgent, coordinated action to protect the community. They stress that simply documenting incidents is insufficient and that a reassessment of how youth delinquency is handled is needed to prevent serious harm or fatalities. “What if it were your parents?” one resident asked, highlighting the personal and ongoing nature of the threat.
