According to local reports, Paphos police fined six people last week for illegal gambling – betting on dice.
One of the six was discovered to be gambling without the use of a SafePass. A SafePass is a document that is required to enter certain venues, such as cafes’ indoor areas. All six were discovered playing dice in a Paphos cafe and were fined shortly after the police searched the establishment.
Officers also fined the establishment’s owner for failing to implement the necessary coronavirus safety measures.
Paphos police have stated that they will file a case against the business owner in court.
This latest case echoes recent reports in the local press, such as one in which a coffee shop owner and four others were charged with gambling. As a result of a warrant, Paphos police charged four people in early July for gambling in a coffee shop. Two of the four were also charged with violating coronavirus rules for failing to take a valid Covid-19 test that would have allowed them to enter the building. Police discovered that two of the customers had outstanding fines, and arrangements were made to collect them.
In addition, the Paphos police had to fine seven people in May, despite the fact that they played in house rather than a cafe or coffee shop.
The police obtained a search warrant and conducted a house search, during which they discovered six people playing dice – three of which had outstanding fines, and the police seized playing cards and €550 ($653) in cash.
Olivia has worked as an editor and writer for major brands across multiple niches. She now focuses on the iGaming and sports betting industries.