Parties condemn checkpoint attack on police officers

Parties on Wednesday condemned an attack by a Turkish national on police officers at the Ledra Street crossing point.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, when a Turkish national attempted to cross and was not allowed by officers, resulting in the man getting angry and attacking the three Greek Cypriot police officers.

The three that were injured were taken to the hospital.

In statements on Wednesday, political parties condemned the violent incident.

Opposition Disy said that all incidents of violence are condemnable, no matter what they are.

“As a sovereign state, we must be relentless in facing such phenomena,” the party said.

Diko, who supported President Nikos Christodoulides in the previous elections, also condemned the incident.

“On the occasion of this new incident of violence, Diko re-emphasises the need for sufficient security at the crossing points in order for checks to be carried out correctly, efficiently, and without endangering the physical integrity of the workers,” the party said.

Diko splinter party, Depa also condemned the incident.

On Tuesday afternoon, the man had attempted to cross over from the north but was barred from entering the government-controlled areas after it was determined that he had entered the country illegally and had no papers.

The man reportedly remained at the crossing point, and then attempted to force his way through, and was intercepted by the officers, showing resistance.

As a result, the three officers – a man and two women – were all injured, the police said, adding that the man was then arrested and taken to a police station for further investigation.

Unficyp was also been informed of the incident, the police said.