Fire at Nicosia central prisons leads to ministerial investigation

On the night of July 19, 2026, a fire broke out simultaneously in five cells and a corridor of Wing Four at the Nicosia Central Prisons. The wing, a high-security unit housing ten inmates with disciplinary or behavioral issues, was evacuated by staff without injuries to prisoners, though one warden was hospitalized for smoke inhalation. Justice Minister Costas Fitiris conducted a surprise visit on Tuesday to inspect the facility and meet with prison management and Pasydy union representatives. Authorities, including police investigators and the Fire Service, suspect the fire was a deliberate act of arson involving mattresses and clothing. Sources suggest the protest was linked to dissatisfaction over being denied extra time to watch a World Cup final, though others claim inmates sought a transfer to wings with better access to power outlets. Damage to the wing has since been repaired and normal operations have resumed. Police are investigating four inmates, with potential arrest warrants pending for two suspected instigators.