Cyprus’ House of Representatives has unanimously approved stricter measures to tackle illegal passenger transport, commonly referred to as “pirate taxis”, strengthening both administrative and criminal penalties.
The legislation, based on a proposal by Nicosia MP Alekos Tryfonides, aims to curb unlicensed passenger transport through tougher sanctions and expanded enforcement powers.
Under the revised framework, penalties can now be imposed from the first offence, removing the previous requirement for repeat violations. Authorities may suspend a driver’s Category B licence as well as the vehicle’s registration, while also gaining the power to immobilise or detain vehicles involved in illegal activity.
In addition, the Licensing Authority is granted the ability to file criminal cases before the courts for offences provided under the law.
The duration of administrative penalties has also been adjusted, with sanctions now remaining in force until fines are fully paid, rather than for a fixed period as initially proposed.
Concerns over enforcement and proportionality
During the parliamentary debate, Tryfonides said the law was designed to address a growing problem that undermines fair competition, affects licensed professionals and raises safety concerns. He noted that the proposal followed consultations with the Transport Ministry, relevant authorities and industry stakeholders, and had been revised to address legal and constitutional considerations.
Independent Socialist MP Costis Efstathiou highlighted enforcement as a key challenge, particularly in proving offences related to illegal taxis. He pointed to practices in other countries, such as restricting access to airports without proper licences, and warned that some penalties could face constitutional scrutiny, although he supported the bill in principle.
DISY MP Dimitris Demetriou described illegal taxi operations as a significant issue driven by high demand, limited supply and insufficient enforcement mechanisms. While he said the law would not fully resolve the problem, he noted it was a step in the right direction, alongside the need to increase the number of licensed taxis.
AKEL MP Valentinos Fakontis also backed the legislation, citing unfair competition and the need to protect both professionals and passengers, while raising concerns about the proportionality of fines.
DIKO MP Panikos Leonidou expressed support for the bill, describing it as a necessary measure to address illegal activity in the taxi sector.
Source: CNA