Three police officers assaulted at Ledra crossing point

A Turkish man attacked and injured three police officers at the Ledra street crossing point after being refused entry into government-controlled areas, police said on Tuesday.

A spokesperson told the Cyprus News Agency that in the afternoon, the man had attempted to cross over from the north, but was barred from entering government-controlled areas after it was determined that he had entered the country illegally and had no papers.

The man reportedly remained at the crossing point. Later, he attempted again to force his way through, and was intercepted by the officers, showing resistance.

“As a result, the three officers – a man and two women – were all injured,” the spokesperson said, adding that the man was then arrested and taken to a police station for further investigation.

Unficyp has also been informed of the incident, the police said.

Immediately after the incident, the Cyprus Police Association and the police branch of labour union Isotita condemned the incident, rushing to defend their colleagues, saying they will always defend those who follow the law.

In a statement, the union said that officers working on the front lines are injured across the island but this never reaches the public.

“It’s our job, some say; everyday injuries at the altar of enforcing the law,” the statement said. “No problem, nobody is concerned, not even whether we have the right equipment”.

Lastly the union called for public support as otherwise “the responsibility will fall on us”.