Five Europol Representatives Arrive in Cyprus

Five Europol representatives have been stationed in Cyprus to assist with migration-related challenges. According to Jean-Philippe Lecouffe, Executive Director of the EU's law enforcement agency, the situation in Cyprus and other countries facing high migration rates is being closely monitored. Should the need arise, a contingency action plan will be formulated.

Lecouffe made these remarks in response to a question from a Cypriot MP during the 15th session of Europol's Joint Parliamentary Scrutiny Group (JPSG), held at the European Council.

The Cypriot parliamentarian asked whether EU member states are prepared to accept a fair redistribution of migrants based on each country's capacity and whether there is sufficient political will within the EU to impose sanctions on Turkey for failing to honor its migrant readmission agreement with the bloc.

The MP highlighted that the migration issue in Cyprus is aggravated by the influx of migrants from Turkey and the redirection of illegal migrants through the occupied territories and the Green Line into areas controlled by the Republic of Cyprus. This has put significant strain on the island’s housing, education, and healthcare systems.

Jean-Philippe Lecouffe confirmed that five Europol representatives are currently operating in Cyprus. He added that their numbers could be increased if circumstances demand.