The municipality of Paralimni-Deryneia has expressed strong opposition to the operation of migrant accommodation structures within tourist areas, citing concerns over location and management

In a statement issued on Friday, the municipality stated it had been informed of a case involving “an individual from a third country, with a serious history of delinquent behaviour”, who had been transferred to a facility within the local tourist zone.

According to the statement, the individual had previously been deemed undesirable elsewhere.

It said that “from the first moment it was informed of the incident”, it coordinated with the deputy migration ministry as well as the police, resulting in the person’s relocation.

The action was taken “to avoid any potential incident”, the municipality added.

While acknowledging the response, the municipality expressed “thanks to the ministry as well as to the Famagusta police department, for their immediate response and the cooperation they showed in managing the issue”.

The statement reiterated the municipality’s broader position on the placement of such facilities, stating that “the operation of migrant structures within tourist areas throughout Cyprus is wrong and harmful”.

It called on relevant authorities to halt agreements that allow the establishment of accommodation facilities in tourism zones.

The municipality further requested “the immediate and responsible management of cases of individuals from third countries who exhibit delinquent behaviour or have a serious criminal record”, indicating concerns over how such cases are handled within existing structures.

Local authorities have previously raised similar concerns regarding the presence of migrant facilities in areas with significant tourism activity.

Earlier statements have linked the issue to the municipality’s role as a major tourist destination, highlighting the importance of maintaining conditions considered suitable for residents and visitors.

The municipality concluded by reiterating its call for policy changes, focusing on the location of facilities and the management of individuals housed within them, while maintaining coordination with state authorities on specific cases as they arise.