Cyprus President Fires Police Leadership After Escape

Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides has dismissed the police chief, deputy chief, and acting director of prisons following the escape of convicted murderer Doros Theophanous during a family visit, prompting public outrage. Themistos Arnaoutis and Panikos Stavrou have been appointed as the new police chief and deputy chief, respectively. Theophanous, serving a life sentence for the murder of his partner and her daughter, was captured after a nationwide manhunt. Three police officers and four prison guards involved in guarding him have been suspended pending investigations into potential misconduct. The president emphasized the need for immediate action to restore public safety and confidence in law enforcement. This incident has raised significant concerns over police oversight and the effectiveness of security protocols in Cyprus.