Syrian Asylum Seeker Remains in Custody for Burglaries in Cyprus

The Court of Appeal rejected a request from a Syrian asylum seeker, named M. A., to be released pending his trial for burglaries and thefts. The Larnaca District Court had ordered his detention, a decision upheld by the Court of Appeal due to the risk of absconding and committing new offenses.

M. A. faces four charges: three for burglary and theft from a supermarket, a shop, and a cafeteria, and one for refusing to provide fingerprints. According to the indictment, mobile phones and approximately €2,100 were stolen.

The Court of Appeal rejected the six grounds of appeal presented by the defense, ruling that the initial decision was well-reasoned and based on specific data. The court considered M.A.'s criminal record, which includes a recent conviction for similar offenses and six pending cases. The Attorney of the Republic, An. Gialourou, represented the Attorney General in the case.

The Court of Appeal consisted of Judges M. Abizas, St. Christodoulidou-Mesiou, and I. Stylianidou.