larnaca migrant — The recent migrant enforcement operation in Larnaca, during which a man tragically died, has prompted police to deny any allegations of violence during the incident.
- larnaca migrant — The recent migrant enforcement operation in Larnaca, during which a man tragically died, has prompted police to deny any allegations of violence during the incident.
The man, who has not yet been identified, jumped from the Filanta apartment block on Makarios Avenue on Wednesday. This occurred as officers conducted a raid targeting undocumented migrants. Sadly, he sustained severe head injuries and was intubated upon arrival at Larnaca General Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries shortly before 10pm.
Larnaca Police Chief Ioannis Kapnoullas addressed the situation on state radio, stating that identification efforts for the deceased are ongoing. He confirmed that an investigation is under way, which will be followed by a formal inquest into the circumstances surrounding the death.
In response to concerns regarding the conduct of the police during the operation, Kapnoullas firmly rejected any claims of excessive force. He explained that the raid was executed in accordance with established protocols and involved both uniformed and plainclothes officers. The chief noted that the three men who jumped from the building did so prior to police reaching the apartments, landing on balconies two floors below.
Additionally, the Larnaca District Local Government Office (DLGO) is assessing the safety of the Filanta building. However, Kapnoullas clarified that it has not yet been officially deemed dangerous or unfit for habitation.
Two other individuals, aged 27 and 38, were injured in the incident and are currently receiving treatment at the same hospital. A spokesperson from the State Health Services Organisation (SHSO) reported that one of the injured is scheduled for surgery to address an upper limb injury, while the other is under observation purely as a precaution.
This enforcement action is part of a broader initiative by the Civil Registry and Migration Department, aimed at addressing the issue of undocumented migrants in Cyprus. The tragedy has raised questions about the methods used in such operations and the overall safety of the buildings involved.
