Authorities on Tuesday arrested five people suspected of illegally residing in Cyprus and for illegal employment, during a sweep operation in the old town of Nicosia.

In a statement, the police said it conducted checks of 72 individuals across several shops and small businesses in the area.

Three people were arrested for illegally residing in the country, plus two more for illegal employment.

The police said the operation was part of the initiative promulgated by Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis.

Taking part in the operation were officers of the police’s immigration office, the crime prevention unit, the Ledra police station, as well as officers from the Tax Department and the Nicosia District Organisation.

Authorities also identified hygiene and safety issues in a number of premises.