The Union of Municipalities on Wednesday condemned the police’s decision to charge Limassol municipality for last month’s carnival security, calling for the invoice’s immediate withdrawal.

The dispute follows Limassol’s rejection of a €43,000 fee, reigniting debate over event policing costs. The police, citing budget constraints, argue that carnival security can no longer be free while prioritising resources for higher-risk events like protests.

Local officials insist that policing costs should be state-funded, particularly for free public events. The controversy raises broader concerns about police resource allocation and whether municipalities will be forced to seek alternative security solutions if state funding diminishes.

Unanimously rejected by the Limassol city council, the fee has raised concerns about setting a precedent. Following remarks by police chief Themistos Arnaoutis in the House, the union expressed “strong discomfort” with the police’s insistence on billing the municipality.

“Public safety is a constitutional obligation of the state and cannot be subject to payments by local authorities,” the union stated, warning that commercialising police cooperation undermines democratic principles.

Despite a public appeal from union president Andreas Vyras, police have sought legal backing from the attorney-general to justify the charge. The union fully supports Limassol’s refusal to pay and urges the ministry of justice to take a stance, warning of further action if the issue is not resolved.