A 39-year-old Iranian man — a recognised political refugee released from prison a few days ago — has spent a second consecutive night sleeping on the pavement outside Larnaca Court, saying he feels safer inside than out.
According to philenews, the man has expressed a wish to return to prison, telling authorities he felt more secure there.
Larnaca Police and the Social Welfare Services (SWS) have been informed. Shortly before midday on Tuesday, he was transferred to Larnaca Police Directorate for humanitarian reasons, so that his situation could be assessed and the reasons behind his decision to sleep on the pavement established.
The man has psychological problems and has been hospitalised at Athalassa Hospital at least twice in the past, according to police sources who spoke to philenews. He has also previously come to the attention of authorities in connection with causing damage.
Social welfare officer on site
Speaking to philenews, Senior SWS Officer Eftychios Hadjichristodoulou confirmed the man is a known case.
“A Social Welfare Services officer is on site to assess his situation and determine whether he requires any medical examination or treatment. If hospitalisation is not needed, accommodation will be arranged at one of the facilities we work with, and immediate financial assistance will be provided to cover basic needs such as food and essential supplies,” he said.
Hadjichristodoulou added that a rehabilitation plan for released prisoners is in place, and that relevant steps will be taken under that programme in this case.
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