The electoral process continued without serious problems until Friday noon, Police Chief Stelios Papatheodorou said during his midday statements from the Police Crisis Situation Management Centre. He added that a complaint from Paphos regarding an attempt to influence the electoral process was being investigated, while also noting that the police will be on alert until the declaration of those who were elected in order to maintain law and order. According to Papatheodorou, the Police are assisting in the smooth running of the elections by mobilising 2,700 of their members, in addition to other members who are performing their regular police duties. "Our aim is to maintain public order and security, so far no particularly serious problems have arisen," the Chief continued, adding that there is the Crisis Situation Management Centre, headed by Assistant Chief Themistos Arnaoutis, as well as district Crisis Centres, where the respective Police Directors are located to deal with any information, complaints or incidents. "What we want, and we are calling on both candidates' supporters and voters, is to turn up unhindered without creating any problems," he added in that regard. Asked about a complaint submitted to the Police by Paphos mayoral candidate Phedon Phedonos regarding an attempt to influence the electoral process, he confirmed that this information has been recorded by the Police, adding that they are investigating whether what was reported by the candidate is indeed true. Asked if there was any information about possible citizen gathering areas tonight and increased police patrol, the Chief said the Police would be on alert until the candidates are declared in order to maintain law and order. Asked about a complaint that a Member of Parliament did not receive a particular ballot paper, Papatheodorou said he discussed the matter with the Chief Returning Officer and was told that it was being taken up by his team. "Where criminal offences exist or are committed, we will investigate criminal cases, whic h will be brought under the Elections Act before the Attorney General for a final decision," he concluded. Source: Cyprus News Agency
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