Independent Investigation into Limassol Migrant Raid Tragedy Underway
In a significant development following the tragic events of April 10 in Limassol, the Independent Authority for the Investigation of Allegations and Complaints Against the Police (IAIACAP) is poised to appoint two criminal investigators to delve into the death of Anisur Rahman, who met his untimely demise after plummeting from the fifth floor of an apartment building during a migrant raid. The Attorney General has approved this request, and the investigators will focus on the circumstances surrounding the man’s death, including the living conditions in the apartment and the reasons for the police search without a warrant.
Philenews has reported that following a decision by the Authority last week, which sought the Attorney General’s nod for independent investigators, a separate complaint by non-governmental organisation KISA also emerged, demanding a criminal investigation into the incident. The two appointed investigators will scrutinize the sequence of events that culminated in Rahman’s fatal fall. The IAIACAP has chosen a lawyer and a former police officer from their ranks to lead this crucial inquiry.
This new phase in the investigation has prompted the suspension of the ongoing probe by the Limassol Crime Investigation Department (CID). All evidence and statements previously gathered are to be transferred to the newly appointed criminal investigators. The probe will extend to examining the apartment’s living conditions, potential illegal employment of the victim, and the legality of the police’s actions during the raid.
On the morning of the incident, police were acting on information about undocumented migrants residing in an apartment. The raid led to two foreign nationals attempting to escape by jumping out of a window, resulting in Rahman’s death and serious injuries to another man. While police claim entry was consensual after knocking, this has been contested by K.S., an eyewitness and resident of the apartment, who alleges forceful entry and assault by individuals without uniforms.
Amidst conflicting accounts, anti-racist organisation KISA has challenged the police’s narrative, citing eyewitnesses who deny that consent was given for entry. Additionally, political party AKEL has urged for clarification on legal protocols and use of force during the search. Meanwhile, Maria Stylianou Lottides, Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights Protection, has initiated an independent inquiry to shed light on the events leading to Rahman’s death.
The case continues to draw attention as various entities seek justice and clarity over the circumstances that led to such a devastating outcome during what was meant to be a routine migrant raid.
