Woman arrested for knife possession at Dhekelia crossing point

A Russian woman is due to appear before the SBA Court in Dhekelia early next month after she was charged with possession of two large-bladed clasp knives after she was found sleeping in her car near the Strovilia crossing point last week, breaking Covid-19 curfew restrictions.

SBA Police and Customs officers spotted the vehicle in what appeared to be an abandoned state in an olive orchard close to the crossing point and she was found inside, the Bases announced on Friday.

After giving what police described as an “unsatisfactory response to questioning”, officers discovered the knives and the woman was arrested.

Following a more thorough search the following day, 2,600 cigarettes and multiple receipts from businesses in the north were also discovered. SBA Customs officers immediately seized the items and issued a Fixed Penalty Notice.

“This has been another successful joint operation and we will continue to conduct them with Customs along the SBA boundaries with the TCAs aiming to deter any illegal activities and crime and ensure law and order and the safety of our communities,” Deputy Divisional Commander, Superintendent Andreas Pitsillides said.

“Equally, we will be robust and apply the law fairly with those who ignore and break it by committing offences. Our aim has and will always be to create and maintain a safe and just environment for those that live, work, or pass through our communities in the SBAs.”

The woman, who was granted bail of €300, was also fined a further €300 for breaking Covid-19 measures.