Update on Limassol Migrant Raid Incident
In a recent update following the tragic events of a migrant raid in Limassol, the Police confirmed that the second man who had jumped from a fifth-floor apartment is now out of danger. The 22-year-old man from Bangladesh is currently receiving treatment at the Limassol General Hospital, marking a slight relief amidst the ongoing turmoil.
The incident, which has sparked widespread concern, also involves the sad fate of 19-year-old Anisur Rahman. Efforts are underway for the repatriation of Rahman’s body to Bangladesh. The Honorary Consulate of Bangladesh in Cyprus has begun procedures, with the Honorary Consul Roupen Paul Kalaydjian stating that he is in constant communication with the country’s embassy in Lebanon. Kalaydjian is awaiting the police report to proceed with the transportation of the body, with the expenses to be covered by the government of Bangladesh.
Anisur Rahman’s death occurred last Wednesday during an operation by the Aliens and Immigration Service in the city centre of Limassol. In a desperate attempt to evade the authorities, Rahman reportedly jumped from the bedroom window as police officers entered the apartment.
The incident has led to conflicting reports about the conduct of the police during the raid. A roommate present at the time claimed that individuals without uniforms used force and punched two people before arresting all occupants. However, the Police have denied these allegations, stating that no claims of forced entry or violence were made in the testimonies of the roommates and that initially, only two officers visited the apartment.
Amidst these conflicting accounts, anti-racist organisation KISA has challenged the Police’s narrative, citing eyewitnesses who allege that the police entered forcefully without consent. The political party AKEL has urged for clarity on several issues from the Justice Minister and Police Chief, including the legality of the search and use of force.
To ensure a thorough investigation, Maria Stylianou Lottides, the Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights Protection, has initiated an independent inquiry into the circumstances leading to Rahman’s death. This inquiry is expected to shed light on the events and ensure that justice and human rights standards are upheld.
