Nicosia, Cyprus. Justice Minister Costas Fitiris said plans to address persistent problems at the central prison are expected to include a mobile phone signal interruption system and the creation of a new facility, with measures to be made public by the end of March.
Shift from expansion to new facility
Speaking before the House human rights committee on Monday, Fitiris said he proposed discarding initial plans to expand the existing building, estimated to cost €40 to €50 million. He instead suggested establishing a new prison outside the capital’s urban area.
Fitiris said the government aims to complete the design of a new facility within a year, adding that construction may take up to five years even if works were to begin immediately.
Overcrowding and offender separation
Fitiris identified overcrowding and the co-imprisonment of serious and low-level offenders as the most pressing issues at the facility, saying measures to address them were already underway.
Deportations, electronic surveillance and pardons
Measures include the deportation of migrants convicted of minor offences, such as illegal employment, though Fitiris said deportations alone would not significantly ease overcrowding.
Additional steps involve the use of electronic surveillance and an extension of the period for granting presidential pardons.
Mobile phone detection and confiscations
Fitiris said a system detecting mobile phone signals inside prisons has been in place for three months, leading to the confiscation of 90 mobile phones as part of efforts to curb organised crime activity behind bars.
Further prison visit planned
The minister said he plans to visit the central prison again and meet with involved stakeholders soon, which would be his fifth visit since he was appointed minister in early December.
What changes do you think would most effectively address overcrowding and security concerns at the central prison?