KOSTAS FYTIRIS ON 'F' - MAFIA INTIMIDATION PRACTICES HAVE NO PLACE IN OUR STATE - WHAT HE SAYS ABOUT THE CYPRIOT FBI, POLICE AND PRISONS - Filenews 15/3 by Michalis Chatzivasilis
The Minister of Justice and Public Order, Kostas Fytiris, appears reassuring about the situation that has been created by the war in the Gulf, despite the fact, as he emphasizes, that the people's concerns are reasonable. In an in-depth interview with "F", Mr. Fytiris points out that it is no coincidence that no terrorist attacks have occurred in our country and points out that Cyprus is not alone. The Minister of Justice sends the message that practices of intimidation and "mafia" action by organized crime have no place in a well-governed state and reveals that everything is ready for the Cypriot FBI. He is against patches in prisons and announces meetings on decisions on repressive violence in the stadiums.
How worried are you about the situation with the war in Iran with the US and Israel?
– (EL) The situation in the Middle East is particularly serious and is being closely monitored by the Republic of Cyprus. The tension in the region raises reasonable concerns, which is why the competent security authorities are on constant alert and are constantly evaluating the data. The existence of the British Bases is a factor that is taken into account in security planning. However, the Republic of Cyprus has proven over time to act as a factor of stability and a hub for humanitarian operations in the region and has the mechanisms to effectively protect the country's citizens, infrastructure and visitors.
Of particular importance was the decisive and timely initiative of the President of the Republic, who, through targeted interventions and direct contacts with leaders of major European countries, achieved the substantial strengthening of the security of the Republic of Cyprus. As a result of this diplomatic mobilization, surveillance and deterrence means, such as aircraft, ships and modern surveillance and interception systems, were deployed in the region. This initiative significantly strengthens the country's deterrence capacity and sends a clear message that Cyprus is not alone, but is part of a wider European security and cooperation framework. At the same time, the absence of terrorist acts on the territory of the Republic is not accidental. It is largely the result of the systematic and preventive work done by the Police and the competent security services.
– Are there any plans in the event of an escalation of the situation or a terrorist threat?
– The Republic of Cyprus has plans to deal with potential threats and these are constantly updated based on developments in the region. The competent security services are constantly alert and cooperate at both national and European level, with the aim of preventing and deterring any threat. At the same time, it is important to recognize that the absence of terrorist acts in our country is not accidental. It is largely the result of the systematic and preventive work done by the Police and the competent security services. Prevention is often less visible than repression, but it is the most essential pillar of security. This effort is recognized by both foreign embassies and visitors to the country, who consider Cyprus a safe destination. We remain, however, in constant readiness. The security services are constantly evaluating the data and taking the necessary measures to ensure the protection of citizens, infrastructure and foreign missions present in the country. Society must feel safe, but also informed. We do our job with a plan, cooperation and composure. If there is anything that requires public instructions, there will be official and timely information from the relevant channels.
– Is there the Government's determination to fight organized crime?
– Tackling organized crime is one of the main priorities of the Government and the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides. Fully aware of the seriousness of the phenomenon, we are working with determination but also with realism, utilizing all the legal tools available to the rule of law. There are no easy or immediate solutions to such a complex and multidimensional problem. Organized crime is evolving and adapting, which is why the State must constantly strengthen the capabilities of the prosecuting and judicial authorities, both at the level of legislation and at the operational level. The effort made is systematic and targeted with the strengthening of investigation mechanisms, better coordination of the competent services and closer cooperation with European and international organizations. Without many words and declarations but with full determination, we continue this effort knowing that the safety of citizens and the protection of society from organized crime is a responsibility that requires consistency, seriousness and constant vigilance.
– What hasn't happened to date and did you do it?
– Dealing with organized crime is a constant effort of the state and it would be unfair to nullify the efforts made in previous years. Every government and every institution has contributed in its own way to the shielding of the State. What we are trying to do today is to strengthen and accelerate this effort with more targeted and modern interventions. We place particular emphasis on better coordination of the competent services, the strengthening of the investigative capabilities of the Police and the utilization of modern tools to deal with complex forms of crime. At the same time, we are promoting institutional and legislative initiatives that enhance the efficiency of the justice system and allow a faster and more effective response to criminal networks. We do not consider that we are starting from scratch. What we are trying to do is to go one step further: with greater determination, better organisation and modern policies that respond to today's challenges.
– There are people who may have turned a blind eye to organized crime;
– It would not be responsible or fair to make such accusations collectively. The institutions of the State operate within a specific legal framework and are based on the professionalism and dedication of many people who daily fight difficult battles against crime. But we must recognize that, as in any large organization, there are also isolated cases of individuals who do not meet the standards and values required by their service. Such behaviours have no place in a healthy and modern Police. The vast majority of the members of the Police perform their duty consistently, professionally and zealously, often under difficult conditions. The duty of the State is to support these people, but at the same time to ensure that where deviations are found, they are dealt with with rigor and full respect for legality.
Our goal is a strong, reliable Police that will enjoy the trust of society and will continue to effectively protect citizens and democracy.
– Recently, videos of mafia actions saw the light of day, what did the authorities do?
– The specific incidents with the videos that have seen the light of day have been treated with due seriousness by the competent authorities. From the first moment, the investigative mechanisms of the Police were mobilized in order to fully investigate the facts, identify those involved and bring them to justice.
Members of the factions that allegedly participated in these incidents are already on trial in the Central Prisons, which shows that the authorities acted immediately and effectively. At the same time, investigations continue with the aim of fully clarifying the case and identifying any additional persons involved. We also fully understand the indignation and concern expressed by society. Citizens have the absolute right to demand to live in peace, safety and dignity in their daily lives. The State must respond to this expectation with seriousness, consistency and determination.
The message is clear: practices of intimidation and "mafia" action have no place in a well-governed state and we will have the will to deal with them decisively, always within the framework of the rule of law.
– How much will the surveillance of telephone conversations help in the fight against crime?
– The ability to monitor telephone conversations, always within the strict framework provided by law and with court approval, is an important tool for the investigation of serious forms of crime.
Organised crime operates with structured networks, coordination and often with great care to avoid identifying the perpetrators. In many cases, recording communications can be instrumental in mapping these networks, understanding how they operate, and ultimately documenting cases before the courts.
However, I would like to emphasize that such tools must always be used with absolute respect for human rights, privacy and the guarantees provided by the Constitution and the legislation. The purpose is not the reckless use of such means, but their targeted use in serious cases where there is a documented need. Together with other investigative tools, they can make a substantial contribution to tackling organised crime more effectively and protecting society.
The Cypriot FBI is in the final stage
– Where are the processes for the establishment of the anti-organized crime team, the Cypriot FBI?;
The creation of a specialised agency to deal with serious and organised crime, which we often conventionally refer to as the 'Cyprus FBI', is an important reform initiative that is already underway.
Our goal is to create a modern, flexible and highly specialized structure within the Police, which will focus exclusively on the investigation of complex cases of organized crime, financial crime and corruption. The organizational preparation of this new unit by the Chief of Police is already in the final stage. At the same time, the procedures for its housing in a separate building are progressing, in order to ensure the appropriate conditions of operation, operational independence and specialization.
No to patches in the Central Prisons
– From the first day you took office, you dealt with the problems of prisons...
– The issue of Prisons cannot be addressed with makeshift solutions or simple "patches". A comprehensive and serious approach is required that concerns both the infrastructure and the operation of the prison system. Our goal is on the one hand to improve the existing conditions in the Central Prisons, where interventions are already being made for better security, organization and management of prisoners, and on the other hand to design modern infrastructure that will meet European standards.
In this context, the previous plan for the expansion of the existing prisons has been cancelled and a decision has already been taken by the Council of Ministers for the construction of a new penitentiary outside the urban fabric. This decision is part of a more comprehensive and long-term plan that will allow better conditions of security, correction and management of the prisoner population.
At the same time, we pay particular attention to the penitentiary nature of the system. Prisons should not only be places of detention, but also places where prisoners are given a real opportunity to reintegrate into society.
In other words, our approach is not limited to temporary solutions. The goal is a more modern, safe and humane prison policy that will serve both the security of society and the absolute respect of human rights.
– You have made another reversal of plans for prisons concerning the juvenile detention area. In the end, were these solutions imposed out of necessity or were wrong plans made?
– The creation of a suitable detention facility for minors is not a matter of choice but a necessity that derives both from the modern principles of juvenile justice and from the country's international obligations.
Minors involved in delinquent behaviour should under no circumstances be treated in the same way as adult prisoners. Their detention, where absolutely necessary, must be done in specially designed areas with a different philosophy: with an emphasis on education, support, guidance and reintegration. The goal is not to punish, but to prevent the repetition of delinquency and to bring these young people back to a healthy course in society. For this reason, we are working to ensure that the infrastructures and procedures concerning minors correspond to modern European practices, with respect for the personality and rights of children. In this context, separate juvenile detention facilities will soon be operational in the Menogia area, in order to ensure a clear separation from adult prisoners and to provide more appropriate conditions for care, education and support.
– You often refer to the punitive character that prisons should have, but crimes were organized from the cells. Can the picture change?
It is a real problem that many countries are facing and we do not underestimate it. The penitentiary nature of prisons does not mean tolerance of illegal activities through penitentiaries. For this reason, control measures, technological surveillance and security procedures inside prisons are strengthened to prevent such practices. The aim is for prisons to function as places of detention and reintegration and not as places from which criminal activity can continue.
– With the rise in crime, do you believe that today the citizen feels safe and what instructions have you given as a political leader to change this climate?
– Security is one of the most basic rights of the citizen and we fully understand that every incident of crime creates concern in society. It is our duty to work systematically to strengthen security, but we must be honest. In order to gain the trust of the citizens, we must have daily results through meaningful actions. This is also our goal.
– On the other hand, if the police officers' gains are cut then they will not perform as expected since there will be murmuring and disagreement with the leadership, don't you agree?
– Police officers perform a difficult and demanding task and the State must recognize their contribution. Any change must be made through dialogue but not exaggerations and always with the aim of improving the operation of the Police and at the same time the well-being of the police officers within reasonable frameworks that are consistent with the degree of efficiency and security of the Society and the financial capabilities of the state. The goal is an effective and staffed Police that feels supported by the State.
Correction of weaknesses
– The findings of the Auditor General's report on what is happening in the Prisons are particularly critical. Is there an issue of responsibility?
– (EL) The Auditor General's reports are an important tool for institutional control and we must take them seriously. Our goal is not to enter into a confrontation but to use the findings to correct weaknesses and improve the functioning of the system. Where problems or omissions are identified, there will be the necessary corrective actions, but the most important thing is to create a framework that prevents them from happening again in the future.
– Some argue that the problems in prisons are timeless and that similar announcements have been made in the past without substantial results. What will be different this time?
– I understand the reluctance of society because indeed the problems in prisons have accumulated for many years. What is changing now is that for the first time there is a clear plan with specific measures and a timetable: immediate reinforcement of staff, modernization of procedures and, at a strategic level, creation of new modern infrastructure. This reform is not only about corrective actions but about an overall change in the way the prison system works. Prisons are a sensitive institution for the rule of law. Society demands security, transparency and modern prison conditions. With the interventions we are promoting, our goal is to leave behind the chronic problems and create a system that will operate with rules, credibility and respect for institutions. The main changes brought about by the plan for prisons are summarized below:
– Recruitment of a Director of Prisons and 90 new prison guards.
– Proper Management Organization Chart
– Electronic personnel evaluation system
– Strengthening security measures
– Improvement of existing facilities
– Modernization of administrative operation
– Design of a new penitentiary complex: Creation of modern prisons outside the urban fabric with an increased capacity of up to 1500 people and European standards with the aim of being completed within 5 years.
