African migrant in critical condition in south Cyprus after property manager violent eviction attempt, others injured

The 35-year-old manager of an apartment complex in Oroklini has been detained for eight days in connection with violent clashes at the property on Saturday.

The incident resulted in critical injuries to a 27-year-old man and serious injuries to a two-month-old baby. The complex was reportedly housing undocumented migrants, predominantly of African origin.

The suspect faces allegations including conspiracy to commit a felony, acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm, causing grievous bodily harm, and assault.

During a court hearing for his detention, the court heard that police were initially called around 10:30 on Saturday by a resident reporting that a group of 15 individuals had arrived at the apartment block and were attempting to remove the residents on behalf of the owner. Police officers attended and found the initial tension had subsided.

However, at approximately 12:30, further serious disturbances broke out between the migrants and a group allegedly enlisted by the 35-year-old manager. Witnesses reported that this latter group wore hoods and masks and were armed with knives and other sharp objects.

Police reinforcements were called to the scene. According to police reports, residents began throwing stones at officers, and tear gas was deployed to control the situation. Subsequently, the 27-year-old man from Congo was found bleeding on a main road in Oroklini.

Footage circulating online appeared to show him being carried there by others. A two-month-old infant and their father, who sustained a hand injury, were also injured in the clashes. All were taken to Larnaca General Hospital.

The 27-year-old man, suffering from a severe head injury, was intubated and transferred to Nicosia General Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. The infant was moved to Makarios Hospital.

The investigating officer told the court that inquiries revealed approximately 15 individuals attempted to evict the migrants from the premises, allegedly under the instructions and coordination of the 35-year-old manager. It was noted that the property had recently been sold to a foreign investor.

Testimonies from residents to philenews claimed that the individuals brought in to evict them were carrying not only knives but also axes, which they used to break down apartment doors.

The court also heard that there are reports of other individuals injured in the violent events, and investigations are underway to locate them in private clinics.

Police are seeking further individuals in connection with the case and are collecting testimonies from local residents and reviewing online video footage.