Police are reintroducing the photoradar list system for checking unpaid traffic camera fines at airports and checkpoints, following changes implemented by the photo-enforcement system’s management company.
The list, officially known as the photoradar list, is being promoted by traffic police as a solution to address thousands of unpaid fines resulting from violations recorded by both fixed and mobile cameras.
According to Phileleftheros sources, the system will enable police officers to check whether citizens have outstanding camera-generated fines when they come into contact with authorities.
Parliamentary opposition emerges over enforcement measures
The initiative has faced opposition from parliamentarians, similar to reactions earlier this year when authorities issued announcements calling on citizens to voluntarily check the system for outstanding fines and pay them if desired.
Citizens were warned that criminal prosecutions would begin in courts after a specified deadline expired.
Police believe the photoradar list will substantially resolve the serious problem of pending fines, whilst legislation is also being advanced to allow violation notifications to drivers not only through registered mail but also via SMS or email.
Implementation requires data protection approval
The outstanding fines list requires approval from the Personal Data Protection Commissioner before becoming operational. Once approved, the system will be installed on computers at airports, ports, and checkpoints, with access restricted to specific personnel.
When citizens attempt to depart Cyprus or cross into occupied areas, authorities will check whether they have outstanding camera-generated fines.
If a person’s name appears on the list, they will receive notification at that moment without being required to pay the fine immediately.
This approach aims to resolve issues with Turkish Cypriots, as currently no checks occur at checkpoints to determine whether someone has been reported by cameras, resulting in tens of thousands of accumulated unpaid fines.
Police stations to receive system access
The list will also be available at every police station, enabling officers to check whether citizens have unpaid camera-generated fines when they contact police for any reason.
Recent procedures have established necessary protocols for the photo-enforcement management company’s systems to register violations on the list, subsequently providing police access to conduct checks whilst ensuring proper personal data management.
October launch anticipated
According to estimates, the system is expected to begin operation within October, pending approval from the Personal Data Protection Commissioner and prior public notification.
Officials clarify that when outstanding camera-generated fines are discovered against an individual, they will not be prevented from travelling to their destination but will simply receive the fine notice.
