Mesimeri and Kati hosted the Mayor of Ayia Napa, Christos Zannetos, who spoke about the increased incidents of violence observed in Ayia Napa.
He initially reported that 2-3 isolated incidents occurred. "Let's not forget that in Ayia Napa 80% of tourism is youth and in the last two years young people did not travel."
He added that this year there is a massive descent of Britons and Scandinavians. "There will also be some unwanted events, we don't want them and they tarnish our tourism potential."
He added that the continuous reports do injustice to the Municipality of Ayia Napa. “They happen in all destinations. For the amount of young people we have, there are almost no incidents."
Mr. Zannetos pointed out that the youth are the ones who supported Ayia Napa. "The youth do not travel organized with the tourist agents".
He also mentioned that policing in the area has increased considerably. "We need a police force of about 30 members per shift to have the desired effect." He clarified that if there is no strict legislation, then nothing can change anything. "As Mayor, I would not hesitate to say that after 6:00 in the afternoon it will be forbidden for anyone to walk around half-naked or with a drink in hand."
With regard to tourism, he emphasized that the percentage of all Cypriots is close to 70% compared to 2019. "Businesses are trying to recover, while inflation and costs are high."
Finally, he mentioned that things will not be rosy for September and October. "There is a reservation due to flight cancellations and the increase in cases.
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