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Cyprus’ deputy migration minister said Tuesday that a sharp drop in irregular migrant arrivals this year has been matched by growing concerns over criminal activity by foreign nationals, warning that such behavior will not be tolerated.
Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection Nicholas Ioannides told local leaders in Kivisili that arrivals of undocumented migrants fell by 67% between Jan. 1 and Aug. 31 compared with the same period last year. At the same time, he said, departures of third-country nationals rose by 21%.
Ioannides stressed that while the government’s stricter migration controls are working, officials are also focused on addressing what he described as “unacceptable delinquent behaviors” among some migrants. He said new detention and reception facilities being built in the Menogeia “Lakes” area will allow for tighter policing and greater security for nearby communities.
The comments came during his latest round of meetings with community councils surrounding the new facilities, part of an EU-funded project. Ioannides said the talks are meant to keep residents informed while allowing them to raise concerns and suggest solutions as the centers move closer to operation.
Cyprus has also seen a 33% reduction in pending asylum applications since the deputy ministry was created, according to Ioannides. He said continued cooperation with local leaders is key to managing the facilities once they open.
Ioannides was joined at the meeting by his chief of staff, Lambros Kaoullas.
