Attacks against food delivery riders in Limassol are becoming increasingly alarming, prompting police to deploy undercover officers posing as delivery workers as part of a broader effort to tackle the phenomenon.
The succession of incidents in recent weeks, particularly three attacks within just three days, has mobilised the Limassol Criminal Investigation Department, as delivery riders have become frequent targets, especially during night-time hours.
A so-called "panic button" system is also under consideration, as revealed by Justice Minister Costas Phytiris.
The use of undercover police officers was disclosed by Limassol Assistant Director of Police Operations Lefteris Kyriakou. He said officers are using motorcycles similar to those used by delivery riders and are patrolling areas considered at higher risk of attacks.
At the same time, a special CID investigative team has been established to examine the cases, searching for common characteristics and possible links between perpetrators.
Robberies but also assaults
According to police, several of the recent incidents indicate that robbery was the primary motive, although this does not apply to all cases.
On Friday night, a 22-year-old delivery rider had his nose broken in Limassol after being struck by an object allegedly thrown at him by youth while he was riding his motorcycle.
On 27 October, a 22-year-old delivery rider was attacked on October 28 Avenue when two people on a motorcycle blocked his path and stole his wallet.
On 16 October, a 31-year-old delivery rider was robbed on Paphos Avenue. The perpetrators initially stole his mobile phone and, when he attempted to follow them, knocked him to the ground, while a third individual stole money from him.
A different type of incident occurred on 2 October, when a delivery rider was assaulted on Spyrou Kyprianou Avenue. Two people got out of a car and attacked the worker, with the incident captured on video. Police launched an investigation on their own initiative as the victim did not file a complaint.
In addition, on 17 October, seven youths aged between 16 and 19 were arrested in Agios Athanasios following reports that passing delivery riders had been harassed.
Limassol at the centre
The increase in attacks is also reflected in official police statistics.
During the first half of 2026, 24 attacks against delivery riders were recorded across Cyprus, including 13 in Limassol alone. By comparison, 23 incidents were recorded in the whole of Cyprus throughout 2025.
According to police, the main motive is the theft of money, although cases linked to personal or financial disputes have also been recorded.
The possibility of organised groups being involved, including gangs allegedly demanding protection money, was examined in the past, but no connection has been established with the recent cases.
At the same time, the frequent targeting of foreign workers has left open the question of possible racist motives, although no such motive has been substantiated in the specific incidents under investigation.
Police measures
Kyriakou acknowledged the increase in attacks, saying a special operational plan has been put in place.
In addition to patrols and undercover officers, police are carrying out targeted checks and have been in contact with neighbourhood officers and delivery riders regarding self-protection measures.
According to Kyriakou, mapping of the incidents does not point to any particular hotspot, as attacks have occurred in different parts of Limassol. The investigative team is attempting to determine whether common individuals or recurring methods are involved.
Kyriakou also stressed the importance of reporting incidents immediately, noting that delays hamper investigations and the collection of witness testimony and CCTV footage.
