**Union Claims Prison ‘Out of Control’ Amid Escalating War with Justice Minister**
The central prisons in Cyprus are currently facing a significant security crisis, characterized by increasing violence, drug-related issues, overcrowding, and staff shortages, according to the prison guards’ union, Isotita (Equality). The claims were made public on Thursday as tensions between the union and Justice Minister Costas Fitiris continue to rise.
Giorgos Maltezos, vice president of Isotita, expressed serious concerns regarding the management of the prison, stating that it has become increasingly difficult to maintain order and safety for both inmates and staff. Maltezos's comments come shortly after his dismissal from the prison service, which the union has labeled as “retaliatory.” They argue that the dismissal is an attempt to silence those who voice concerns about the deteriorating conditions within the prison system.
Minister Fitiris has countered the union's allegations, asserting that the dismissal was not related to Maltezos's union activities but rather due to repeated non-compliance with workplace regulations. He emphasized that while trade union activities are protected, they must be authorized during working hours. Fitiris maintained that a disciplinary investigation conducted by the ministry justified the termination and noted that Maltezos has the right to contest the decision in court if he chooses.
In his statement, Maltezos highlighted alarming incidents that have occurred within the prison, including two separate violent altercations on Wednesday in different wings, one of which left an inmate seriously injured. He described these incidents as part of a broader trend rather than isolated occurrences. Additionally, he referred to a reported rape allegation involving an inmate from September 2025, a violent clash involving improvised weapons in June, and a fire incident in the maximum-security Wing 4 last month that resulted in a prison officer being hospitalized for smoke inhalation.
The union also raised concerns about the health risks faced by prison staff, citing an incident where an officer was exposed to an inmate's blood during a violent confrontation and is now undergoing medical examinations for potential communicable diseases. Maltezos pointed out that drug trafficking remains a persistent issue within the prison, further complicating the already challenging environment.
The Council of Europe’s committee for the prevention of torture has previously noted that staffing shortages significantly hinder effective control within the prison. Maltezos stated, “When rapes, stabbings, and arson occur within this custody, these are not accidents. They are a failure of the state itself at the expense of prisoners and staff alike.” He accused the government of opting for intimidation over meaningful reform, suggesting that his dismissal serves as a warning to other prison staff about the consequences of speaking out.
The ongoing conflict between the justice ministry and the police unions has intensified, with Fitiris defending a series of reforms aimed at enhancing discipline within the prison system. He has also criticized the abuse of sick leave among officers, noting that under current public service regulations, employees can take up to 42 days of sick leave before being referred to a medical board. If approved, this leave can be extended to six months on full pay, followed by another six months at half pay. Fitiris remarked that it is unacceptable for some individuals to take excessive sick leave while protesting outside his office, although he acknowledged that many prison officers perform their duties with professionalism.
In response to the ongoing issues, the government has announced plans to reform sick leave regulations across the public sector. Fitiris confirmed that discussions with trade unions will commence next month, assuring that the proposals will focus on addressing individual abusers rather than penalizing employees with legitimate medical needs.
As the situation unfolds, the union's claims and the justice minister's responses highlight the complexities and challenges facing the prison system in Cyprus, raising questions about the future of prison management and the safety of both inmates and staff.