A management committee representing an apartment complex in Larnaca has called for an immediate investigation by the competent authorities into a series of allegations, including illegal electricity and water connections, unauthorised use of apartments, overcrowded accommodation and threats against committee members.
In a statement dated October 2, the committee said it represents the legal owners of apartments and premises and expressed concern over incidents and conditions it claims are taking place in shared and other areas of the buildings.
Allegations over apartment use
The Larnaca apartment complex committee alleges that some apartments are being occupied using forged, invalid or illegal rental agreements without the consent of the legal owners.
It also claims that third parties are renting out apartments and collecting income without the owners’ authorisation.
The committee further referred to indications of possible money laundering through the collection of rents by people it says are not entitled to receive them.
Illegal electricity and water connections
The committee also reported alleged illegal electricity connections, either directly to meters or through external wiring linking one apartment to another.
According to the statement, the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) inspected some of the connections and deemed them dangerous.
The committee also alleges illegal connections to the water supply network, water theft and the supply or sale of water from one meter to other apartments.
It said that, after illegal connections were disconnected in cooperation with the water authority and the EAC, some were allegedly reconnected.
Threats and police complaints
The committee said some of its members have received threats and alleged that there have been incidents in which individuals shouted at and intimidated residents.
It said a complaint has already been filed with police against specific individuals, while apartment owners have also filed and continue to file complaints.
The committee said it is seeking an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the allegations by the relevant authorities.
Structural safety checks under way
In cooperation with the Larnaca District Local Government Organisation (EOA Larnacas), the committee has appointed a civil engineer and is carrying out laboratory tests to assess the structural condition of the apartment buildings.
It said measures have also been taken, following recommendations from EOA Larnacas, to protect residents and passers-by from falling plaster.
Further repairs and renovation works are also being planned.
The committee said unauthorised use of spaces, overcrowding, unauthorised accommodation and possible interventions in shared or private infrastructure raise serious concerns over safety, hygiene, public order and property protection.
It called for checks on the legality of accommodation and use of the buildings, the inspection and removal of allegedly illegal electrical and plumbing connections, and measures to protect the safety, health and property of legal owners and residents.
The committee stressed that its complaint is not directed against any national, ethnic or religious group, but solely concerns what it describes as legality, safety, the proper operation of the apartment complex and the rights of legal owners and users.
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