Alpha News

New Prison Construction to Take at Least Four Years, Says Justice Minister

Published January 14, 2026, 14:28

Justice Minister Kostas Fytiris informed the Parliamentary Committee on Legal Affairs that the construction of the new prison facility will take at least four years, as it will be located outside urban areas. During the meeting, issues of security and crime were discussed, with the Minister stating that the Police will strengthen its presence to prevent illegal activities, especially at night. He also mentioned the upcoming operation of the "Cypriot FBI". MPs expressed various opinions. Aristos Damianou (AKEL) announced a scheduled meeting with the Minister to discuss issues. Christiana Erotokritou (DIKO) expressed concern about the decline in public safety. Sotiris Ioannou (ELAM) assured the support of his party for the Minister's efforts. Haralambos Theopemptou (Ecologists' Movement) called for better consultation with the Parliament on bills, while commenting on the limited visibility of the Police on the streets. Alekos Tryfonidis (DIPA) emphasized the multi-faceted nature of the Minister's work and expressed his support, while also warning about the negative consequences of the politicization of the Police. Minister Fytiris assured the MPs of his availability to attend the Parliament when summoned. He explained that his visits to the prisons and the Police were aimed at better understanding the problems of the correctional system and the security services. He stressed the need to combat organized crime and acknowledged the necessary upgrading of the prisons, as the existing building does not meet modern needs.