Newsroom
A number of prisoners are walking free from Cyprus’ Central Prisons starting Wednesday, as authorities try to ease overcrowding inside the prison system.
The releases include Cypriot and foreign nationals convicted of minor offenses who met specific conditions, the Justice Ministry said. They were granted a presidential pardon ahead of the Aug. 15 holiday following a recommendation prepared with the agreement of the Attorney General’s Office.
The ministry did not say how many prisoners would be released or specify the offenses for which they had been convicted.
Separate arrangements are being made for foreign prisoners convicted of minor offenses whose asylum applications have been rejected.
Those who can legally be returned to their home countries will be deported rather than released into Cyprus. Some are expected to leave immediately, while the necessary procedures are still being completed for others.
The move forms part of a wider effort to relieve pressure not only at the Central Prisons but also in police detention centers.
Overcrowding has long raised concerns about living conditions, access to services, and the ability of prison staff to maintain safety and order. Put simply, when too many people are held in a facility built for far fewer, the strain is felt by prisoners and staff alike.
The government said it would continue using all legal options available to reduce the number of people being held.
It stressed that the process would follow Cyprus law and international agreements, respect prisoners’ rights, and avoid putting public safety at risk.
The releases do not amount to a general pardon. They apply only to minor offenders who were assessed against specific criteria, while serious offenders are not included in the measure.
