New bill allows body cameras for officers
Angelos Nicolaou, spokesperson for the Cyprus Police Association (CPA), outlined the key provisions of the revised bill on body cameras use on “Mesimeri kai Kati”.
The legislation allows officers, whether in uniform, plain clothes, or inside vehicles, to wear and activate cameras while performing duties. Nicolaou emphasized that cameras will not remain permanently on.
Activation under strict conditions
“Cameras will not be permanently recording, as some worry,” he said. “Officers will activate cameras only under specific conditions, following clear instructions and orders that define when recording is permitted.”
Legal and operational benefits
Nicolaou thanked the Law Office and Police Headquarters for the initiative. He called it a “significant modernization step,” providing officers with a tool that supports both operational and legal functions.
The cameras will serve as protection against unfounded complaints and as a tool for professional improvement. “They provide objective evidence if an officer faces false accusations of violence or misconduct, and help us improve our work,” he said.
Camera placement and citizen awareness
Cameras will be worn on the officer’s front, with a visible indicator light. This ensures citizens are aware that interactions are being recorded and that footage may be used in court if necessary.
Exceptions and legal safeguards
Nicolaou clarified that in certain situations, officers may not be able to activate cameras. “If I face an attack while on duty and cannot switch on the camera, there is no legal issue,” he said.
Regarding personal data, all footage will be processed legally according to relevant legislation before use or public release.
Citizens recording officers
On whether citizens can record officers with mobile phones, Nicolaou noted that the concern lies in the use of the footage. “The issue is not recording itself, but whether the material is shared or used in a way that violates officers’ privacy or targets them. Posting online often creates serious problems,” he said.
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