Cyprus Police arrest 19-year-old escapee from Lakatamia detention center

A 19-year-old man who escaped from the Lakatamia police detention center has been apprehended by the Cyprus Police following an operation in Limassol. The escape occurred after the individual allegedly broke a window bar in his cell, with his absence discovered during a headcount at approximately 7:45 PM on Friday.

Authorities have also arrested the escapee's 45-year-old uncle on suspicion of complicity in a criminal offense. Investigators are examining whether the uncle provided assistance to help the young man flee the area after communicating with him immediately following the escape. The uncle has been placed in five-day custody by the Nicosia District Court.

The incident has renewed concerns regarding the management of police detention centers, which are currently facing pressure due to overcrowding caused by a lack of space in central prisons. The Ministry of Justice is expected to discuss the oversight of these facilities in an upcoming meeting with the Chief of Police.