Plans announced for new central prison facility in Agios Sozomenos

Minister of Justice Costas Fytiris has defended plans to construct a new central prison facility in Agios Sozomenos, despite pushback from local authorities. Addressing concerns, the Minister emphasized that he is open to discussion regarding documented objections once the project's master plan is finalized, but he rejected outright opposition to the location choice. The proposed facility is intended to serve as a modern correctional institution rather than a simple detention center.

The new complex is designed with a capacity of 1,750 inmates, a significant increase from the current facilities which house approximately 1,200 people despite a capacity of only 650–700. The design envisions a "small society" model featuring vocational training workshops, substance abuse programs, and a small hospital. Under this plan, only convicted prisoners will be moved to the new facility, while remand detainees will remain at the current location in Nicosia to facilitate proximity to the courts and alleviate congestion.