Police officer shot wife and took his own life – 18,409 reports of violence against women since 2021
Police Chief Themistocles Arnaoutis announced to Parliament that 18,409 incidents of violence against women were recorded between 2021 and June 2026. The discussion followed an incident in which a police officer shot his wife and subsequently took his own life.
Police officer shot wife and took his own life – 18,409 reports of violence against women since 2021
A police officer shot his wife last week and subsequently ended his own life. The woman is hospitalised in critical condition. The incident was discussed in Parliament, where Police Chief Themistocles Arnaoutis presented data on violence against women in Cyprus.
According to statements made by Mr Arnaoutis, between 2021 and June 2026, 18,409 reports of violence against women were recorded. These reports resulted in 3,674 arrests, 2,858 restriction orders and 373 victim protection orders. According to police data, between 2020 and 2025, there were 17 cases of femicide on the island.
A few days before the incident involving the police officer, a 38-year-old woman and her 58-year-old mother were seriously injured by the younger woman's ex-husband.
The authorities have taken measures to address the problem. The Ministry of Justice operates a body for the prevention and combating of violence against women. Approximately 200 public employees have already received training, whilst a further 100 police officers are expected to follow the programme. The body works on raising public awareness and supporting victims, providing a 24-hour helpline.
In 2024, an application was launched that allows victims to alert the authorities without being detected by the perpetrator. The same year, legislation was amended so that victims of gender-based violence are entitled to legal assistance.
Organisations such as the Association for the Prevention and Management of Violence in the Family (SPAVO) operate 17 services and programmes. The telephone line 1440 received almost 6,000 calls in 2025. Three-quarters of gender-based violence involves cases of domestic violence.
Source: Cyprus Mail
Source: Cyprus Mail