Authorities on Monday stepped up efforts to tackle illegal taxi operations, with dozens of violations recorded last week in Limassol and Larnaca.

The campaign took place on April 14 and 15, led by the department of road transport. It was carried out under the direction of the licensing authority and in cooperation with the ministry of labour’s inspection service. The focus was on stopping illegal passenger transport from airports and ports.

In Limassol, officials issued 13 citations against drivers and vehicle owners suspected of involvement in unlawful activities. In Larnaca, 21 citations were handed out, mainly around the airport area. Investigations are still ongoing into 13 more suspected cases. One intercity taxi was also reported for breaching the terms of its road use licence. Separately, a rural taxi was found illegally transporting a passenger outside its permitted area.

In another case, a pirate taxi driver refused to comply with a supervisor’s instructions and would not provide his personal details. Altogether, 34 violations were recorded, with three cases already referred for judicial investigation. The inspection findings have also been passed on to the labour ministry’s inspection service to check for possible unregistered and illegal employment.

Officials said the crackdown highlights their commitment to fighting illegal practices in road transport. They stressed the aim is to protect professional drivers and passengers alike, promoting a safer and fairer transport system.