Nicosia, Cyprus. A reported stabbing in the central prisons has emerged through press reports, with claims the incident was not officially announced. A lawyer has requested an investigation and medical treatment for the inmate involved.
Alleged assault and medical care request
According to Reporter, a man said he was attacked by fellow inmates on Tuesday and that, despite wanting to file a complaint, police were not informed and he was not taken to hospital for his injuries. The outlet reported that the man’s lawyer sent a letter to the justice minister about the incident.
Previous complaint and reported threats
The inmate had filed a complaint to the police in February alleging he had been beaten by prison wardens and was later threatened against advancing the case.
Letters to officials seeking investigation
His lawyer, Demetris Apeshiotis, sent letters to the justice minister, the chief of police and the head of the criminal investigations department requesting a thorough investigation.
Details of injuries and isolation measures
Apeshiotis said that on Tuesday midday two people assaulted his client, stabbing him in the left arm and shoulder, as well as the abdomen. According to Reporter, the lawyer said the two inmates had been placed in isolation, one of them for just two days.
Claims about prior warning
The inmate appears to have informed the police in writing last February that a fight was imminent, but the fight was not prevented. Instead, the inmate was placed in isolation while trying to stop the fight.
What steps should authorities take to ensure reported prison assaults are investigated and treated promptly?
