Larnaca is currently experiencing a surge in thefts from beachgoers at its organised beaches, particularly on popular Finikoudes Beach.

According to the police, thieves are taking advantage of people leaving their belongings unattended while swimming, with bags, mobile phones and wallets being the main targets.

In response, the police have repeatedly warned the public in recent weeks to be particularly vigilant when visiting the beaches, with the main recommendations being to refrain from carrying large sums of money and avoid leaving their belongings unguarded.

A Larnaca police spokesperson told the Cyprus Mail that there has been a noticeable spike in beach thefts since the beginning of the summer season.

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“This year, the phenomenon is particularly prevalent along the Finikoudes Beach, as thieves tend to target bags, small purses, and expensive mobile phones.”

In order to combat the issue, he also said the police have increased some preventive measures, including deploying uniformed officers and plainclothes police who are on standby to intervene if they detect any illegal activities.

Last month, Larnaca police arrested a 44-year-old man who was systematically involved in thefts from beachgoers.

The suspect was initially arrested for attempted theft and later for illegal possession of property – two cellphones and a pair of sunglasses – for the possession of which he was not able to give a satisfactory explanation.

The spokesperson also revealed that complaints from victims of thefts tend to rise over weekends, when beaches are more crowded, adding that the police will intensify their patrols and checks during the peak tourist months of July and August.

“Once again, the most important thing is to be smart and cautious, people should bring to the beach only essential items, as well as the smallest possible amount of cash,” the spokesperson concluded.