Nicosia, Cyprus. A disciplinary investigation was launched on Saturday after a 17-year-old briefly escaped from police custody at Omorfita police station the previous evening. The teenager was recaptured a few hours later after a coordinated police operation across Nicosia.
Escape and recapture
The 17-year-old was being held in connection with a theft investigation and alleged illegal possession of property. Police said he escaped from the station late on Friday afternoon before being located and taken back into custody a few hours later.
Disciplinary inquiry ordered
Police-chief Themistos Arnaoutis ordered the disciplinary investigation after reviewing a report on the incident. An investigating officer has been appointed to examine whether disciplinary responsibility arises for an active police officer.
Officer leave procedures initiated
Procedures have also been started for the officer concerned to be placed on leave, according to a police statement.
Ongoing investigations
Police said the investigation into the circumstances of the escape remains ongoing, and the case file has been updated to include the incident at Omorfita police station. Further inquiries are continuing into both the original theft case and the handling of custody arrangements at the station.
