As in the majority of countries, the police establishment in Cyprus is there to uphold the peace; serving and protecting the community, ensuring the citizens and visitors to the country are free to go about their business with peace of mind.

The police can be easily distinguished by their dark navy blue uniforms with 'POLICE' emblazoned on the front, as well as the back, written in both English and Greek.
The Cypriot Police Headquarters is situated in Famagusta (in the northeast of Cyprus), but there are smaller 'sub stations' located in most towns.

The police have a dim view of those that flout their laws and regulations. Zero tolerance is practised against those that break them.

Driving

Motorists in Cyprus drive on the left-hand side of the road.
Front seatbelts must be worn. This is compulsory. Children under five are not allowed to occupy the front seats.
As with many countries, there are set speed limits and other strict regulations which the police are vigilant in enforcing. These must be adhered to.

Speed limits

This is measured in 'km' and as in the UK, will vary depending on the road type or whether you are travelling in an urban or rural area.
The speed limits are as follows:

Built up /urban areas 50 km (30 mph)
Country lanes 80 km (50 mph)
Motorway 100 km (60 mph) - unless otherwise stated

Penalties for speeding

When caught speeding, the offender must pay an on-the-spot fixed penalty. The fine is calculated at approximately 2 ½ Euros for every km that the driver has been over the limit.

Driving when Intoxicated

If found to be under the influence of alcohol or narcotics the individual will be arrested at the scene and taken immediately to a holding cell from where they will appear in front of the local magistrate, the following day. The magistrate presiding, will decided the penalty. This is usually a payable fine but in some circumstances can lead to a custodial sentence. The length of the sentence or size of the fine depends on the severity of the offence.
The intoxication limit in southern Cyprus is 39mg of alcohol per 100ml of breath sample. 50mg is the limit in northern Cyprus, where if caught, as well as a stiff fine the offender will be made tp spend the night in a drying-out cell.
There is no legal representation. If caught, you are guilty.

The Motorway

The use of quad-bikes on the motorway is strictly prohibited and pedestrians on the motorway is firstly illegal and secondly, well.. it's dangerous!
Dune buggies are classed as cars and can be driven on motorway, if over 500cc.

Identification

It is illegal to drive without any form of photo ID on your person. Ensure that you are carrying documentation such as your driving license or passport. This is relevant to all types of motor vehicle, including quad-bikes, mopeds and dune buggies.

Helmets

Motorbike and moped riders are legally required to wear protective headwear. Failure to comply will result in a fine. Although the legality of having to wear a helmet when on a quad is somewhat ambiguous, stay safe and wear one.

Misuse of Illegal Substances

Police perform regular 'Stop & Search' operations.
These occur at random times and locations; blanketing whole areas. Everyone passing through, will be stopped.
Primarily, the police are looking for drivers under the influence of alcohol as well as those who have taken or who are in possession of, narcotics.

The consumption and ownership of narcotics in Cyprus is strictly forbidden.
With due cause, an individual may be stopped and searched.
If found to be intoxicated on, or in possession of illegal substances, the law and penalties, as described above, will apply.

Other Important Information and Advice

If directed by a police officer to stop, do so immediately and cooperate with their requests.

Driving offences committed under Cypriot law will not be 'carried over' on return to the UK.