**Title: Justice Ministry Increases Staffing at Central Prisons Following Assaults and Harassment Allegations**
In response to a series of reported incidents at the central prisons, the Ministry of Justice in Cyprus has announced the hiring of fifteen new prison guards, with an additional fourteen recruits currently undergoing the hiring process. This move is part of a broader strategy to address ongoing staffing shortages and improve safety at the facility, which has been marred by two assaults on prison guards within just three days, as well as allegations of sexual harassment involving a female inmate.
The Ministry of Justice confirmed to the Cyprus Mail on Friday that it is aware of the troubling reports emerging from the prison and emphasized that “all matters are under investigation.” The recent incidents have raised significant concerns regarding the safety of both prison staff and inmates.
The assaults began on Thursday when a guard in ward 4 was reportedly attacked by a prisoner, resulting in abrasions. This incident followed another assault just three days earlier, where another guard was struck by a different inmate. Following the first assault, the prisoner involved was transferred to ward 4, where he was subsequently beaten, reportedly as an act of retaliation.
Questions have arisen regarding the disciplinary measures taken in response to these incidents. Reports indicate that the prisoner involved in the earlier assault was not confined to his cell for several days, despite prison regulations stipulating such action following a violent incident.
In addition to the assaults on guards, a separate investigation is underway concerning allegations made by a female inmate against a prison guard. The inmate has accused the guard of sexual harassment, claiming that she experienced inappropriate behavior over a two-week period. After notifying prison officials, she requested that police be involved and has since engaged legal counsel. The guard in question has denied the allegations, suggesting that the complaint was made out of spite after the inmate's leave from an open prison was revoked due to concerns about her potential escape.
The Justice Ministry is taking steps to enhance training for new guards, with plans to collaborate with the University of Cyprus to provide improved training programs. The fourteen new recruits will undergo a two-month training course designed to prepare them for the challenges of working in a prison environment.
Justice Minister Costas Fitiris visited the central prisons on Wednesday to assess the current conditions and the situation regarding staff and inmate interactions. In light of the incidents, the Ministry is also exploring alternative sentencing options for certain offenders, particularly those convicted of less serious white-collar crimes. This initiative aims to alleviate overcrowding and reduce the pressure on prison staff, which has been exacerbated by the recent events.
The Ministry's efforts to bolster staffing and training come at a critical time as the central prisons face increasing scrutiny over safety and management practices. The ongoing investigations into both the assaults on guards and the harassment allegations will likely play a significant role in shaping future policies and procedures within the correctional system.
As the situation develops, the Ministry of Justice is expected to continue monitoring conditions at the central prisons closely, ensuring that both staff and inmates are protected and that appropriate actions are taken in response to any misconduct. The safety and well-being of all individuals within the prison system remain a top priority for the Ministry as it navigates these complex issues.