Nicosia:A three-day training course titled 'Countering Organised Criminal Networks Involved in Migrant Smuggling' was held in Nicosia with the participation of 12 EU member states. The event, part of CEPOL training course 006/2026, included contributions from key European organizations such as Europol (ECAMS), Frontex, and the European Commission's Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs (DG HOME), as well as representatives from the German Police and trainers from the Centre for Security Studies (KEMEA) in Greece and the Cyprus Police.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the training was organized by the Cyprus Police Academy in collaboration with the Centre for Security Studies (KEMEA) in Greece and took place from November 10 to 12, 2026.
During the opening ceremony, Cyprus Police Chief Themistos Arnaoutis highlighted the significance of international police cooperation and the exchange of knowledge to combat organized and cross-border crime effectively. Participants in the training examined modern criminal network activities, including the use of digital technologies and cryptocurrencies, and explored new methods for identifying and combating these phenomena.
The police noted that the training featured specialized presentations, real-life case studies, and practical exercises that enhanced the exchange of operational knowledge and best practices. This initiative underscored the importance of investing in training and leveraging international expertise as vital tools for addressing cross-border threats.
The Cyprus Police Academy, through organizing such European training activities, actively contributes to strengthening international police cooperation and developing the skills needed to address modern cross-border threats effectively.