Convicted businessman Simon Aykut, has been transferred to Israel to serve the remainder of his prison sentence after being moved from Cyprus.
The transfer was carried out at Israel’s request under an international agreement on the transfer of sentenced persons, which Cyprus is obliged to implement.
Aykut, an Israeli national, had been sentenced by a Cypriot court to five years in prison for the usurpation of Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied areas, in a case that drew significant political and legal attention.
'Obligation' to follow Israel's request
Cyprus’ Minister of Justice and Public Order, Costas Fytiris, had previously stressed the country’s obligation to honour the agreement governing prisoner transfers.
Speaking at a press conference in Nicosia in February, Fytiris said Israel had formally requested Aykut’s transfer so he could serve his sentence in his home country.
“We have an obligation to respect this agreement. We are aware this is a particularly sensitive case due to the usurpation of Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied areas,” he said, noting that he had approved multiple similar requests involving other countries.
He added that, in this case, all factors relating to the public interest had been carefully weighed.
Assurances
Fytiris also said Cyprus had secured assurances from Israel, including recognition of the offence relating to the usurpation of Greek Cypriot properties. He noted that Israel had issued and renewed a travel advisory urging its citizens not to purchase properties built on such land.
Regarding Aykut’s remaining sentence, the minister said that due to his age, he could be eligible for release after serving half of his term, meaning he may spend only a further six to eight months in custody.
“We cannot risk the public interest for six months of imprisonment,” Fytiris said, adding that the key point was the conviction itself and Israel’s recognition of the nature of the offence.