Critical overcrowding in Cyprus police holding cells

Cyprus is facing a severe crisis regarding overcrowding in police holding cells, which are operating far beyond their intended capacity. As of August 2026, stations like Lakatamia are housing 77 detainees in facilities designed for 40, while similar conditions are reported in Limassol. This situation has led to detainees, including remand and convicted individuals, sleeping on the floor and facing significant lapses in hygiene and safety.

The crisis is exacerbated by the overflow from the national prison system, forcing the Justice Ministry to transfer convicted inmates into police stations. Consequently, local police must transport new suspects from Nicosia to facilities as far away as Paphos or Paralimni. Furthermore, detainees are being denied their right to two daily exercise periods due to security concerns, a practice that directly contradicts recommendations set by the Council of Europe’s Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT). Nikos Loizides of the Isotita union has highlighted that these conditions undermine basic human rights for those held in police custody.