Cyprus gets underwater robot

Police on Friday took delivery of an underwater remotely operated vehicle camera donated by the United States under the CYCLOPS programme, a US-funded security training facility for the eastern Mediterranean.

The camera was handed over at a special ceremony at the Cyprus’ port and marine police headquarters in Limassol, complete with a demonstration.

“Excited about our donation of this underwater remotely operated vehicle camera to Port and Marine Police in Limassol.  This cutting-edge technology will be used to improve the safety & security of ships in port, and to train professionals from around the region at @CYCLOPScenter,” US ambassador Judith Garber said on Twitter.

Retweeting her message, the US embassy added: “By working together to ensure the security of our ports, we safeguard our economies, our infrastructure, and our communities.”

Addressing the ceremony, police chief Stelios Papatheodorou thanked the US for the generous donation that would upgrade operational capabilities of the police, especially in matters of safety at sea, ports and the borders of Cyprus.

The police chief noted that the challenge of dealing with terrorism, international organised crime, cybercrime, illegal immigration, economic crime and human trafficking required bolstering personnel, resources, equipment and services and strengthening cooperation on an international level.

One of the highest priorities in this process is the introduction of new technologies and science, he said.

“The Video Ray Pro 4 brand camera is expected to improve the operational capabilities of the Port and Marine Unit. In particular, its contribution will be crucial for searches conducted at sea, dams and lakes to locate objects and missing persons, but also at ports before the arrival of military ships, raising safety of the seas and ports of Cyprus to even higher levels,” he added.

The camera has search capabilities to a maximum depth of 300 metres, a claw for lifting objects, and front and rear cameras for recording data and taking photos. The camera is operated wirelessly from land, and has two headlights for nighttime use.

Papatheodorou described the US as a valuable partner that has provided assistance to the Republic of Cyprus on a range of issues, as evidenced by the CYCLOPS programme, and said the Cyprus Police was open to further cooperation.