Deputy Superintendent of Traffic Department Tassos Asikkis discussed upcoming changes to driving license suspension procedures for serious traffic violations involving alcohol and drug use on the “Protoselido” show.
Police officers will gain authority to revoke licenses immediately from drivers judged “very dangerous” under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. This eliminates delays from postal correspondence between Police and Road Transport Department.
Road Transport Department collaborated with Law Office to make on-site delivery legally feasible. Officers can now hand suspension notices directly during checks, with the offender’s vehicle towed immediately from the scene.
Agreement ends bureaucratic delays
An agreement with Road Transport Department Director and staff terminates time-consuming letter exchanges. “Instead of mailing suspension notices, police delivering the check can serve them on-site,” Asikkis explained.
Actions already ensure immediate license suspension capability. Offenders cannot continue driving under any circumstances; whether alcohol or drugs.
Alarming 2025 road death statistics
Cyprus faces growing problem of driving under narcotics and alcohol influence, particularly in certain districts. “The phenomenon escalates, especially in Paphos with drugs,” Asikkis noted.
2025 recorded eleven road fatalities linked to impaired driving: five from alcohol-drugs combination, five from narcotics alone. He also cited fatal crashes from driver distraction.
Legal process and implementation timeline
Criminal prosecution for serious offences like drug driving remains separate court matter. “Case adjudication belongs to courts,” Asikkis clarified.
Police immediate suspension powers require Transport Minister decree within ongoing Road Transport Department consultations. Suspension duration will be regulated soon.
Asikkis expects substantial results soon, enabling officers to suspend license validity immediately.
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