In Nicosia Prison: 12 guards suspended over corruption

A major corruption scandal is unfolding at the Central Prison in Nicosia — 12 staff members have been suspended after serious violations and suspected illegal activities were uncovered. The Ministry of Justice confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and criminal proceedings have already been initiated against some of the guards.

According to official information, three guards were caught attempting to bring drugs into the prison, one tried to smuggle a mobile phone to inmates. Another employee has already been sentenced to three and a half years in prison for intentional arson. Four other guards have been temporarily suspended pending internal investigation, and three are suspected of committing serious criminal offenses.

Security measures are being strengthened in parallel. Since the beginning of the year, more than 130 inspections and raids have been carried out in the prison, during which numerous prohibited items have been seized — drugs, mobile phones, sharp objects. In one case, a visitor tried to smuggle 14 mobile phones hidden inside a refrigerator; in another, devices were found in the sole of a shoe.

The Minister of Justice stated that the ministry will not allow corruption cases to be concealed and will strive for transparency in all departments of the penal system. According to him, the investigations are systematic and will form part of a broader prison reform aimed at restoring public trust and improving security standards.