The Simon Aykut case has triggered fresh concern after lawmakers were told in the Parliamentary Refugee Committee that construction on Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied areas resumed even before his transfer to Israel to serve the remainder of his sentence.
The development prompted strong reactions from MPs and refugee organisations, who are calling either for the transfer not to proceed or, if it does, for clear guarantees that he will not be released.
Committee chair Nikos Kettiros said information presented during a closed session indicated that building works restarted as soon as news of the planned transfer became known. According to statements made in the session, Aykut is linked to construction on 40 Greek Cypriot properties.
The committee also discussed the case of Behdat Jafari, with MPs stressing that effective measures are needed so usurpation cases do not close without meaningful justice.
Questions were also raised over how Cyprus will ensure the sentence is actually enforced after the transfer and how the return of wanted individuals to the occupied areas for continuation of such activities can be prevented.
