Justice Minister Costas Fytiris has ordered an immediate U-turn on plans for a new juvenile prison in Mennogeia as authorities scramble to manage critical overcrowding in the central jail.
Fytiris told Phileleftheros that because the number of juvenile detainees is currently low—between 15 and 20—it was deemed inefficient to “sacrifice” a facility capable of holding 128 people. Consequently, the Mennogeia site, originally intended for illegal migrants and young offenders, will now serve as a temporary adult prison until a permanent new facility is built.
To address the needs of young offenders, a smaller, suitable area has been located within the Central Prison complex but outside the main high-security walls. This move ensures juveniles remain segregated from hardened criminals, meeting requirements set by the Council of Europe’s Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT).
The relocation will also free up the “Special 8” wing, which currently houses inmates under the age of 21, providing much-needed space for the general prison population.
The Minister noted that while juvenile facilities should have been ready over a year ago, delays at the “Limnes” site had stalled the reshuffle. However, with the first phase of the Limnes Pre-departure Centre now complete, migrants currently held at Mennogeia will soon be transferred, allowing the facility to take in adult convicts.
Additionally, Fytiris has issued instructions for the swift deportation of foreign nationals residing in Cyprus without a permit. Under the new directive, those without residency permits will be detained in police cells for a maximum of four days before being deported. The policy aims to prevent further strain on the prison system and reduce the legal and financial burden on the state.
