Cyprus Police have not yet received official notification of a planned gathering of personal mobility device users in Nicosia on 31 October, but say they are aware of the event through media reports and will assess the situation based on developments on the day.
Speaking to Politis Radio 107.6 & 97.6, Traffic Department officer Tasos Ashikis said any police response would depend largely on whether participants obstruct traffic or create road safety risks.
Police monitoring developments
Ashikis said authorities are following reports about the planned gathering and will act with caution, particularly given the possibility that minors could participate.
He noted that any decisions regarding police action would be based on the circumstances that arise and the potential impact on road users.
Legal age for e-scooter use is 17
According to Ashikis, current legislation allows the use of personal mobility devices, including electric scooters, only by individuals aged 17 and over.
The minimum age was increased from 14 to 17 following legislative amendments introduced in April.
He added that children under the age of 14 do not bear criminal responsibility, while those aged 14 and above may face legal consequences. Parents also have responsibilities regarding the conduct of their children, he said.
Circumstances under which scooters may be confiscated
Ashikis explained that recent legislative changes provide police with powers to confiscate personal mobility devices in specific cases.
However, he noted that the measure cannot yet be implemented because it requires a decree from the Minister of Transport, which has not been issued.
Under the legislation, confiscation may be possible where:
- A device owner or parent fails to take reasonable steps to prevent use by a person under 17.
- A scooter is used in a prohibited area.
- A scooter is operated on a road with a speed limit exceeding 30km/h, except when crossing between authorised zones.
Expansion of low-speed road network
Electric scooters are currently permitted on:
- Roads with a maximum speed limit of 30km/h.
- Cycle lanes.
- Designated cycling routes.
Ashikis said the Public Works Department is gradually expanding the number of roads, particularly in Nicosia, where speed limits are being reduced from 50km/h to 30km/h.
He noted that similar approaches have been adopted in several European cities, including Paris and Brussels, although it remains unclear whether such measures will eventually be applied more broadly across Cyprus.
Two e-scooter fatalities recorded in 2026
According to Ashikis, authorities recorded 10 cyclist fatalities between 2021 and 2025.
For users of personal mobility devices, there was one recorded fatality in 2022 and two fatalities between the beginning of 2026 and the present date.
He said police efforts are focused on protecting all road users, noting that e-scooter riders remain particularly vulnerable on roads with higher speed limits.
Call for greater road safety awareness
Ashikis stressed the importance of road safety education and the role played by parents, teachers and schools.
He said young road users often imitate the behaviour of adults, making responsible conduct and awareness essential for improving safety.
