B. REPORT ON THE SHORT-TERM DETENTION AREA IN THE NICOSIA ASSIZE COURT In accordance with articles 4 and 5 of L. 2(ΙΙΙ)/2009 thereby Cyprus has ratified the Optional Protocol to the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment, the Commissioner for Administration has the mandate to carry out unrestricted and regular visits without to places in which people are or may be deprived of their liberty. In this context, the meaning of a place of deprivation of liberty extends beyond the traditional places, such as prisons and police stations to encompass any other places in which persons may be deprived of their liberty at a given moment. Such a place includes the detention area in the Nicosia Assize Court which is used for the safe custody of the detainee while waiting to appear before the competent Court. The visit to the said area was conducted on 23 February 2016 upon consultation with the Police and the Chief Registrar of the District Court of Nicosia, as the area was undergoing upgrading works. It was noted that it should be made clear to all the members of the Police involved in transferring and detaining people in such places that the rights of detainees as provided in the relevant legislation (L. 163(I)/2005) shall apply by analogyin the waiting area. Therefore, the obligations of the members of the Police to ensure respect for the rights of detainees should be applied accordingly. The Commissioner welcomed the initiative and the proposals under consideration, as they are indeed designed to improve the conditions and the safer and more efficient operation of the area. She therefore urged the competent authorities to implement and complete the works required the soonest possible. 20