Isotita Union Calls for Overhaul of Cyprus Police Holding Cells
In a recent television interview, Nikos Loizidis, the chairman of Isotita’s police branch, voiced a strong stance on the state of holding cells within Cyprus police stations. Addressing the issue on Alpha TV, Loizidis highlighted the chronic overcrowding plaguing the system and the inability of current facilities to accommodate the influx of individuals awaiting trial or remand.
According to Loizidis, this is not an isolated issue but a widespread problem across police stations in Cyprus. He described the facilities as “overloaded,” unable to cope with the demand. The crux of the dilemma, as Loizidis pointed out, lies in the absence of a centralized space designated for holding these individuals.
He advocated for the establishment of purpose-built holding cells that would align with the standards set by the Council of Europe’s Committee for the prevention of torture. Despite his calls for action, Loizidis expressed frustration, noting that their recommendations seem to fall on deaf ears.
Loizidis questioned the current practices within Cyprus, contrasting them with international norms where dedicated detention centers are commonplace. He argued that police staff should not be tasked with cell supervision, a role he believes should be reserved for trained professionals specializing in that capacity.
Emphasizing the necessity for government investment, Loizidis stated unequivocally that “for solutions to be found, you must pay.” His comments come in the wake of a damning report by ombudswoman Maria Stylianou Lottides, which condemned the dire conditions at Limassol’s police holding center. The report criticized the center for its overcrowding, poor ventilation, and substandard toilet facilities. The Limassol center, designed to hold up to 34 individuals, is divided into three sections catering to different categories of detainees, including minors and administrative detainees.
The call for reform by Loizidis underscores a pressing need for change in the handling and housing of detainees in Cyprus, pointing towards a more humane and professional approach in line with European standards.
