Manhunt underway for 19-year-old fugitive from Lakatamia police detention center
On the evening of September 25, 2026, 19-year-old Syrian national Medyan Al Shaban escaped from the Lakatamia police detention center in the Nicosia district. His absence was discovered at approximately 7:45 p.m. during a routine prisoner count. Authorities report that the escape was accomplished by punching through and breaking the metal grille of his cell window. Al Shaban had been held in Lakatamia following a remand order issued by the Limassol District Court in connection with an ongoing criminal case.
Following the escape, the police launched an extensive search operation and released the suspect's photograph to the public, urging anyone with information to contact the Nicosia Criminal Investigation Department (CID) or the Citizen's Line. An emergency meeting was held at Police Headquarters on September 26, where the Nicosia Police Director briefed leadership on the circumstances of the breach. The facility has faced prior criticism regarding security protocols, having recorded a similar escape in January 2024.
In a related development on September 26, police arrested a 45-year-old man, identified by reports as the fugitive's uncle, on suspicion of providing assistance to Al Shaban after his escape. He is currently facing charges of accessory after the fact as the criminal investigation and manhunt continue.