**Police Launch DigiPol Portal to Bring Services Online**
The Cyprus Police have officially launched a new digital platform named DigiPol, aimed at enhancing public access to police services. The portal became operational on Thursday and is integrated into the government’s online platform, gov.cy. This initiative allows citizens to access over 30 police services without the need for in-person visits to police stations or offices.
During a press conference to introduce the platform, Deputy Police Chief Panikos Stavrou emphasized the convenience and efficiency that DigiPol offers. He stated that the portal enables users to submit requests electronically, track the progress of their applications, and receive updates throughout the process. This digital shift is expected to significantly streamline police operations, allowing for a more effective allocation of resources.
Stavrou highlighted that the introduction of DigiPol is a step towards modernizing police services, making them more accessible to the public. "Members of the public can now utilise a range of services electronically without the need for a physical presence at police stations and offices in a simple, safe and effective manner," he noted.
The available services on the DigiPol platform include applications for criminal record certificates, requests for police reports, and declarations regarding lost identity cards. This focus on non-urgent services is part of the first phase of the project, which aims to reduce the necessity for citizens to visit police stations for routine matters.
Chryso Angeli, head of the EU-funded projects unit and deputy director of the finance directorate, provided insights into the technical aspects of the DigiPol project. She explained that the initiative includes not only the digital citizen portal but also upgrades to the police central information system and supporting infrastructure. These enhancements are designed to bolster the operational capacity of the police force.
Angeli noted that the project is funded through the European Union’s Recovery and Resilience mechanism, reflecting a broader commitment to modernize public services in Cyprus. The development of the DigiPol platform involved collaboration with the University of Cyprus’ research center (KIOS) and the Cypriot technology company NETU, alongside various ministries.
The launch of DigiPol is part of a growing trend towards digitalization in public services, aiming to improve efficiency and accessibility. With the increasing reliance on technology, the Cyprus Police are positioning themselves to better serve the community while focusing on their primary mission: the protection of citizens and the assurance of public safety.
As the platform continues to evolve, further services may be added, enhancing the overall user experience and further reducing the need for in-person interactions. The police force anticipates that this digital transformation will not only benefit the public but also enable officers to dedicate more time to their core responsibilities.
Overall, the DigiPol portal represents a significant advancement in the way police services are delivered in Cyprus, reflecting a commitment to modernizing public administration and improving citizen engagement.