Makarios Drousiotis has yet to submit evidence to police despite visiting headquarters, Justice Minister Kostas Fitiris said on Friday, following a high-level meeting on security concerns.
The meeting, held at the Law Office of the Republic of Cyprus, brought together Fitiris, Attorney General Giorgos Savvides and Police Chief Themistos Arnaoutis in the wake of an attack on a legal service officer at the Limassol Criminal Court.
No timeline
Fitiris said Drousiotis spent several hours at police headquarters but did not provide any material to support a formal statement, instead raising questions and suggestions about the process.
Authorities are now awaiting the submission of evidence before proceeding with a full deposition. No timeline has been given, though Drousiotis is expected to return.
Detention facilities
Attention has also turned to security in the courts following what Savvides described as a “tragic” and “unacceptable” incident in Limassol — the third attack targeting legal service officials. He stressed the seriousness of violence occurring “inside the temple of justice”.
Discussions focused on tightening security protocols, including police measures and coordination with the Supreme Court of Cyprus. On-site inspections of court facilities are expected as part of efforts to prevent similar incidents.
The issue of restraining detainees in court was also raised. Savvides said the matter falls under the authority of the Supreme Court, though he noted that handcuffs are already permitted in high-risk cases and could be extended.
Fitiris said ensuring public safety — starting with the courts — is a top priority. “We will increase measures, analyse what happened and ensure such an incident does not occur again,” he said.
Separately, concerns were raised over overcrowding in detention facilities. Fitiris said police holding cells and prisons are at capacity, with Limassol facilities operating at roughly double their intended occupancy.
Police are seeking solutions as part of broader efforts to address rising pressures on the system.
Arnaoutis said additional security measures will be introduced following the Limassol attack, adding that the investigation is expected to conclude by Monday morning, when the case file will be submitted to the Legal Service.
A separate probe is also under way into a fire at Limassol detention facilities, alongside an administrative inquiry to determine its cause.
CNA