Cypriot and foreign prisoners are being released from today as part of the ongoing effort to ease overcrowding at the Central Prisons.
Those being released include Cypriot and foreign inmates serving lighter sentences who met specific criteria and were granted a presidential pardon ahead of the August 15 holiday, following a recommendation drawn up in cooperation with and approved by the Attorney General’s Office.
At the same time, the prescribed procedures are under way for the return or deportation of foreign inmates serving lighter sentences whose asylum applications have been rejected and who meet the legal requirements. A number of them will be deported immediately, while procedures in the remaining cases are ongoing.
Efforts to reduce overcrowding at the Central Prisons and police detention facilities will continue using all available lawful means, in full compliance with national legislation and international conventions, with respect for prisoners’ rights and without compromising public safety.
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