The President of the Police Union Branch of ISOTITA, Nikos Loïzidis, expressed deep frustration and concern following the violent incidents that took place on Holy Saturday night, particularly in connection with improvised explosives and attacks on officers.
Speaking to the Protoselido programme, Loïzidis said multiple officers were injured during this year’s λαμπρατζιές—the traditional Easter bonfire gatherings. “These homemade explosives and fireworks are deadly if they hit you. This is not a game.”
He criticised the exclusion of police unions from parliamentary discussions on the relevant legislation, calling it a deliberate decision: “This was the first time in years our unions were intentionally not invited to Parliament. It was on purpose.”
Loïzidis also argued that current laws do not adequately empower police to intervene in the days leading up to Easter.
“For 15 days, we ran ourselves ragged. But unless a criminal act like illegal gathering, noise, or vandalism is committed, we can’t act.”
He strongly disagreed with the current bonfire law, saying it lacks basic controls: “Only four bonfires should be allowed per district—not every person applying for a permit. This isn’t tradition anymore. Forget the idea that it is.”
He also raised a hard question for lawmakers: “If an officer shot someone holding a flare and lives were at risk- would that be considered proportional force? Tell us! Because police have seconds to decide.”
Police were unable to use tear gas or riot control equipment, he added, because of the proximity to churches and residential areas.
“We couldn’t escalate without chaos. It wasn’t an option.”
Loïzidis then turned to long-standing legislative delays, including laws around face concealment, protest management, and parental responsibility for underage offenders.
“Officers are being assaulted and the punishment is a €150 fine. That’s not justice.”
He closed by calling for urgent reform: “We have injured officers- a probationer, one hit in the head, others pelted with stones. The situation is out of control. We need funding. We need gear. We need laws that let us act before lives are at risk.”
Read also: Police urge public to avoid firecrackers amid Easter safety blitz
