The authorities in Cyprus have declared six Nigerian citizens persona non grata over allegations that their presence could pose a threat to public security, public order and public health.

The individuals were identified as Omoyemwen Queensley Erhunmwunsee, 27, Osemwenoyemwen Victoria Aduwa, 22, Success Adesuwa Ekhosuehi, 24, Faith Osaherumwen Agontaen, 20, Etinosa Faith Agho, 21, and Blessing Okoro, 20. 

According to Cyprusnews247, the government published the declaration in an official gazette on Tuesday after the Council of Ministers approved the decision following a security report submitted by the Police General Directorate.

The government, however, did not immediately disclose the specific allegations against each individual, stating that the decision was made in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Foreigners and Immigration Law, Chapter 105.

Under the provisions, the Council of Ministers may declare an immigrant unwelcome in Cyprus on various grounds, including suffering from a contagious disease, being considered a threat to public order, or having previously been deported from the country.

It is not the first time that Nigerian nationals have been the target of law enforcement in Cyprus. 

In May, the Peoples Gazette reported student Obasi Chimezirm Princewill was sentenced to 14 years’ imprisonment after he was found guilty of sexually assaulting an unnamed victim at her dormitory while videotaping the act.

Also, two Cyprus-based Nigerian nationals, Jesutimileyin Bolarinwa Adelasa and Excellent Chizorom were arraigned in court after the police allegedly found drugs, bullet casings and a hand grenade in their residence.