**Nicosia, Cyprus** – In a decisive move to confront the growing threat of organised crime, the Cypriot justice system is undergoing a significant overhaul, spearheaded by a renewed commitment to visible policing and systemic improvements. Justice Minister Constantinos Fytiris has unequivocally pledged to enhance police presence on the nation's thoroughfares, particularly during the nocturnal hours, a strategy he terms putting "boots on the streets." This initiative is intrinsically linked to a broader objective of bolstering public safety and prioritising preventative measures to ensure citizens can navigate their communities with a palpable sense of security.
The impetus behind these reforms is multifaceted, addressing not only the immediate need to curb criminal activities but also the deeply entrenched challenges within the correctional system. Minister Fytiris candidly described the current Central Prisons as relics of a bygone era, dating back to 1890, and highlighted the pervasive issue of contraband, such as mobile telephones, which significantly impedes effective control. To address this anachronistic infrastructure, plans are well underway for the construction of a state-of-the-art prison facility. While a suitable location has been identified, it remains undisclosed pending crucial local consultations, with projections indicating a completion timeline of at least four years.
Complementing these tangible infrastructure and policing initiatives is the recent assumption of office by a new legal leadership duo: George Savvides as Attorney General and Savvas Angelides as his Deputy. Their appointments, expedited from their original July 10th date due to the unexpected resignation of their predecessor, Costas Clerides, are viewed as pivotal in restoring the tarnished reputation of the Cypriot justice apparatus. President Nicos Anastasiades, in underscoring the gravitas of these appointments, stressed the paramount importance of integrity, discretion, and profound legal acumen in their roles. He articulated a vision where the safeguarding of citizens' fundamental rights and the prevention of arbitrary actions are paramount, underscoring the independent nature of the Attorney General's office, free from any external undue influence.
The new leadership faces the formidable task of not only combating sophisticated criminal networks but also revitalising the efficiency of a legal system grappling with a backlog of pending cases. President Anastasiades himself has emphatically called for the expeditious processing of these cases, recognising that a swift and responsive judicial process is fundamental to public trust and the overarching goal of maintaining law and order. The expectation is that increased police visibility will act as a potent deterrent, while the forthcoming prison facility promises to modernise correctional practices and enhance security. Collectively, these measures signal a robust determination to fortify the foundations of justice and security across Cyprus, aiming to foster an environment where crime is proactively deterred and citizens feel unequivocally protected.