Residents of Ayia Fyla in Limassol report increasing youth delinquency in their neighborhoods, with vandalism, property damage and nighttime disturbances becoming a daily occurrence.
The situation affects multiple areas, particularly near the church square and Ayia Fyla Lyceum, where residents say they can no longer sleep at night due to noise from motorcycles, cars, arguments and occasional fights.
“We’re exasperated. Besides not being able to sleep, we don’t feel safe,” said Elena, a resident near the lyceum, who admitted considering selling her home due to the ongoing issues.
Another resident described how groups of mainly minors gather near Panagia Chrysaifiliotissa Church almost every evening. “We can’t leave our homes. We hear swearing, noise, and often see them damaging property. They spray-paint walls, break doors and windows,” the resident said.
Community leader Maria Panagiotidou confirmed these complaints, noting that municipal crews regularly repair vandalism at the church and surrounding areas. “There’s a serious problem in our area. Juveniles write on church walls and surrounding spaces. They’ve broken doors at the hall next to the church, set fire to waste bins, and damaged toilets.”
A tour of Ayia Fyla reveals walls covered with graffiti, particularly near schools. The acronym “AFT – Agia Fyla Texas” and postal code “3115” have become symbols of youth delinquency in the area.
Panagiotidou emphasized that the problem is particularly acute near the lyceum. She noted that while the community has reported these issues to police, officers claim limited options since most troublemakers are minors. “Even increased patrols passing through these areas without intervention don’t solve the problem,” she said.
The situation has reportedly worsened following recent renovations to Ayia Fyla’s center. “We have vandalism and damage every day. Areas are cleaned and repaired in the morning, and by evening, the same problems recur,” Panagiotidou said.
She described many of the offenders as extremely young. “You see some of these children out at midnight, and they’re not older than 12.”
Limassol Municipality reportedly plans to install security cameras west of the church to deter vandalism. Additionally, the municipal hall behind the church will be allocated to “Mario’s House” day centre.
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