Cyprus: Police operation ongoing at Pournara migrant reception center Oct. 28

Event

Police are carrying out a security operation at the Pournara migrant reception center, approximately 22 km (14 miles) west of Nicosia. Riot police were deployed after clashes broke out between two groups in the facility; unconfirmed reports suggest authorities are evacuating the center.

Police have implemented increased security measures around the facility to facilitate the security operation. Road closures and movement restrictions in the surrounding area are possible, prompting localized transport disruptions. Heightened tensions following the clashes and evacuation of the facility could result in further violence in the coming days.

Context

The Pournaras Emergency Reception center has the capacity to host around 1,000 migrants. The facility is operating over capacity amid an increase in irregular migration to Cyprus in 2022 likely resulting in increased tensions within the center and with the local population.

Advice

Avoid the affected area until authorities give the all-clear; heed all instructions from security services. Check for disruptions and allow extra time for travel in the surrounding area.