During the first 24 hours of additional patrolling for the long weekend, police said on Sunday they had seized seven motorcycles and a car in Limassol over illegal modifications and not having a valid licence.

They also booked 158 drivers for speeding and 38 for drunk driving.

During traffic checks in Limassol alone, especially on the coastal road, 137 drivers were booked for various violations.

Islandwide there were 671 motorists caught for various traffic offences.

Police said they would be stepping up patrols over the holiday weekend. They said there would be a particular focus on Monday when people would be returning to the cities from their weekend breaks.