MVP

Tag: investigation

  • Allegations of Human Trafficking in Ayia Napa Raise Concerns Among MPs

    Allegations of Human Trafficking in Ayia Napa Raise Concerns Among MPs

    Allegations of human trafficking in Ayia Napa have sparked significant concern among MPs, particularly following a recent Channel 4 documentary that exposed the exploitation of young women in the area. This troubling issue was extensively discussed during a meeting of the House human rights committee on Monday.

    Committee chairwoman and Akel MP Irini Charalambides revealed that deputy migration minister Nicholas Ioannides is expected to address the committee within the next fortnight. He will provide updates on the measures being implemented to protect victims, combat human trafficking, and hold perpetrators accountable.

    Andreas Anastasiadis, assistant director of the police, informed the committee that an ex officio investigation into the documentary has already been launched. The police have gathered several statements and are seeking additional information from the British broadcaster regarding the claims made in the film.

    In another development, the cyber crime department is currently examining allegations related to a website that purportedly advertised job positions in Cyprus during the summer months. Anastasiadis refrained from sharing further details to avoid compromising the ongoing investigations but noted that police efforts against human trafficking have intensified in recent years. Since 2021, there have been 30 convictions across 21 cases, with an additional 30 cases still pending.

    During the meeting, it became apparent to MPs that the multidisciplinary group tasked with combating human trafficking, which operates under the deputy migration ministry, is failing to perform its duties adequately. Chairwoman Charalambides expressed her discontent with the current situation, stating that it does not align with the timelines provided by the Ministry of Interior. As a result, she plans to advocate for the coordination of this body to be transferred to the justice ministry, which is also responsible for law enforcement.

    Disy MP Rita Superman echoed the concerns raised during the discussion, asserting that the issues revealed in the documentary reflect a broader systemic problem rather than just a negative reality for Cyprus. She emphasised that the nation is grappling with a system that has allowed for the exploitation of women and the impunity of organised groups for far too long.

    Superman pointed out that while the media often highlights procedures and restrictions, there has been insufficient focus on tangible results. She critiqued the prevailing response of “there were no complaints” regarding human trafficking cases as indicative of significant operational and political gaps.

    Volt MP Alexandra Attalidou described human trafficking as a direct outcome of systemic issues, calling for proactive measures to identify victims. She argued that the state must demonstrate zero tolerance for such practices and ensure that victims receive the necessary support to escape their situations, especially as many face intimidation that prevents them from coming forward.

    Ayia Napa’s mayor, Christos Zannetou, shared that the municipality has conducted its own investigations into local establishments and the broader social challenges facing the town. However, he highlighted that the responsibility for monitoring accommodations used by seasonal workers no longer falls under municipal authority, indicating a gap in local oversight.

    Zannetou announced a comprehensive meeting scheduled for February 6, aimed at tackling ongoing concerns regarding public safety, law enforcement, and the management of seasonal workforce accommodations. Justice Minister Constantinos Ioannou and police chief Themistos Arnaoutis are expected to attend this crucial meeting.

    The allegations raised in the documentary point to a troubling system of exploitation aimed at young British women, who are lured to Cyprus under the guise of “working holidays”. Many of these women encounter illegal employment practices, sexual harassment, and unsafe living conditions, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and reform in the region.

  • Cyprus Ministries Clash Over Human Trafficking Responsibilities Following Channel 4 Revelations

    Cyprus Ministries Clash Over Human Trafficking Responsibilities Following Channel 4 Revelations

    In the wake of a Channel 4 investigation revealing troubling instances of sexual harassment in Ayia Napa, Cyprus’s ministries are embroiled in a conflict over who should address human trafficking crimes. A Migration Deputy Ministry official candidly admitted to Parliament, “we do nothing on this issue,” highlighting the lack of coordination among the various governmental bodies involved.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    During a recent House Human Rights Committee hearing, officials from the Interior Ministry, Justice Ministry, and Migration Deputy Ministry struggled to delineate their roles in combating trafficking. Migration Deputy Ministry official Xenia Georgiadi stated that while her office coordinates efforts, it lacks an operational role, placing the primary responsibility on the police.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Committee chair Irene Charalambidou expressed concern that the issue of trafficking should never have fallen under the Migration Deputy Ministry’s purview. She announced plans to re-evaluate the coordination structure and confirmed that both the migration deputy minister and justice minister would be summoned to Parliament for further discussions.

    As the debate unfolded, MPs and other stakeholders pushed for the Justice Ministry to assume a more central role in coordinating anti-trafficking efforts. Justice Ministry legal officer Spyros Yiallouridis acknowledged his ministry’s involvement in a multi-agency trafficking group but refrained from commenting on whether it should take over coordination responsibilities, citing the matter as political.

    MP Rita Superman described the shift of trafficking oversight from the Interior Ministry to the Migration Deputy Ministry as a significant error, arguing that such matters should be handled by the Justice Ministry. She pointed out that in Turkey, human trafficking falls under the Migration Ministry, which should not be the case in Cyprus. Trafficking, she insisted, is fundamentally a human rights issue, exacerbated by vulnerabilities related to migration.

    As these discussions unfold, Labour Ministry representative Christina Mitidou reiterated that her ministry does not bear responsibility for trafficking. In light of the Channel 4 investigation, the committee is preparing to send a letter demanding clarification on inspections conducted before and after the video’s release.

    In terms of law enforcement, police have reported that 30 individuals have been convicted over the past five years in trafficking cases involving either sexual or labour exploitation. Police Crime Combating Department assistant director Andreas Anastasiades shared that extensive checks were conducted at Ayia Napa establishments, with operations occurring across Cyprus. He outlined the number of operations executed in recent years: 26 in 2022, 37 in 2023, 33 in 2024, and 18 so far in 2025.

    Despite these efforts, 30 trafficking cases remain pending in court. Anastasiades emphasised that police are taking the matter seriously, working in collaboration with Europol and other agencies to address trafficking more effectively.

    Amid the scrutiny, Ayia Napa’s mayor, Christos Zannettou, labelled the incidents highlighted in the Channel 4 report as isolated, asserting that the municipality receives around 45,000 tourists daily, with over 10,000 people employed in the area. He acknowledged the need for investigations into the establishments mentioned in the video but maintained that such occurrences do not represent the norm.

    He also pointed out that there are job advertisements from websites based in the Netherlands that promise work and accommodation, but often only offer a bed without proper living conditions. Zannettou noted that complaints regarding workers’ living conditions and other issues like noise pollution have been recorded, but these are not reflective of the broader situation.

    The gender equality commissioner’s office faced criticism for its lack of response to the Channel 4 investigation. A representative of the office, Andreas Misos, stated that commissioner Josie Christodoulou condemns acts of sexual or labour exploitation but is currently abroad. MPs expressed frustration at her absence from committee meetings over recent months and suggested that she should have taken more proactive measures following the video’s release.

    Charalambidou pointed out that the commissioner should have coordinated with police and relevant authorities to prepare a comprehensive report, a sentiment Misos deemed unrealistic, given Christodoulou’s lack of an institutional role.

    NGOs have also expressed concern over their exclusion from coordination meetings related to trafficking. Paraskeui Tzeou, chair of Cyprus Stop Trafficking, noted that her organisation was not invited to multi-agency meetings, while Katerina Stefanou, founder of Step Up Stop Slavery, echoed similar sentiments regarding her exclusion from the December meeting.

  • Paphos home — Investigation Underway After 63-Year-Old Woman Found Dead in Paphos Home

    Paphos home — Investigation Underway After 63-Year-Old Woman Found Dead in Paphos Home

    paphos home — paphos home — A 63-year-old woman was found dead in her home in Paphos, prompting an investigation by local police. The discovery was made on Saturday by a relative who entered the residence in a community within the Paphos district.

    Initial findings from the police indicate that the woman’s body showed no signs of bruising or injuries, which raises questions about the circumstances surrounding her death. As authorities continue their investigation, they are shifting their focus to the living conditions of the woman, seeking to uncover any potential factors that could have contributed to her passing.

    This tragic incident has drawn attention from the local community, sparking discussions about safety and well-being in the area. Residents are left in shock, grappling with the sudden loss of a member of their community.

    As the investigation unfolds, police are likely to conduct further examinations and interviews to gather more information. Local officials urge anyone with details related to the case to come forward, hoping to piece together a clearer picture of what transpired.

  • Larnaca stabbing: Injured Man in Larnaca Sparks Police Investigation into Possible Stabbing

    Larnaca stabbing: Injured Man in Larnaca Sparks Police Investigation into Possible Stabbing

    larnaca stabbing — larnaca stabbing — An injured man in Larnaca has prompted a police investigation into a possible stabbing incident. The victim was taken to Larnaca General Hospital following the altercation that occurred today at around 5 p.m.

    • The local community is shaken by the incident, as incidents of violence are relatively uncommon in the area. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police.
    • As the investigation unfolds, police have not disclosed whether any arrests have been made. Further updates are expected as the CID continues their inquiries.

    Reports indicate that the injuries sustained by the victim are believed to be knife-related. The incident reportedly arose from a dispute between the victim and a suspect, who is alleged to have drawn a knife during their confrontation.

    The Larnaca Criminal Investigations Department (CID) is actively looking into the circumstances surrounding the case. Authorities have not released details regarding the identity of the victim or the suspect at this time.

    The local community is shaken by the incident, as incidents of violence are relatively uncommon in the area. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police.

    As the investigation unfolds, police have not disclosed whether any arrests have been made. Further updates are expected as the CID continues their inquiries.

  • Larnaca clash: Axe-Wielding Mob Clashes in Central Larnaca, Gunshots Ring Out

    larnaca clash — larnaca clash — An axe-wielding mob clashed in central Larnaca, creating chaos just 100 metres from the local police headquarters. The violent encounter unfolded on Grigori Afxentiou, the city’s busiest street, as terrified passers-by looked on.

    • Witnesses reported that the violence erupted without warning, leading to a chaotic environment. Many bystanders fled the scene in fear as the sounds of shouting and gunfire echoed around them.

    Video footage obtained by philenews captures the shocking scene, with individuals brandishing axes and crowbars. The altercation escalated quickly, with gunshots fired, leading to damage to nearby vehicles.

    Witnesses reported that the violence erupted without warning, leading to a chaotic environment. Many bystanders fled the scene in fear as the sounds of shouting and gunfire echoed around them.

    The identity of the attackers remains unknown, and local authorities are investigating the incident. Eyewitnesses have described the atmosphere as tense, with the sudden outbreak of violence leaving many in shock.

    As the police continue to gather evidence and assess the situation, a manhunt has been launched to apprehend those responsible for the violent clash. The incident has raised concerns about public safety in an area typically regarded as secure.

    Local residents expressed their alarm over the violence occurring so close to the police station, emphasising the need for increased security measures. As Larnaca attempts to return to normalcy, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of this troubling event.

  • Pissouri — Body Discovered in Pissouri Area Linked to Missing Russian Tycoon

    Pissouri — Body Discovered in Pissouri Area Linked to Missing Russian Tycoon

    Authorities have discovered a body in the Pissouri area, raising hopes of resolving the mystery surrounding missing Russian tycoon Vladislav Baumgertner. The remains were found on Wednesday in a remote coastal section of the Sovereign Base Area (SBA), located between Pissouri and Avdimou.

    This discovery comes after an extensive search that has been ongoing since Baumgertner was reported missing on 7 January. The 56-year-old former CEO of Russian fertiliser giant Uralkali was last seen taking a taxi towards Pissouri, prompting a large-scale rescue operation.

    Search teams had been focusing their efforts on a rugged stretch of coastline, particularly around the cliffs of Cape Aspro. This area was identified after the last signal from Baumgertner’s mobile phone was detected nearby, leading investigators to believe it could hold crucial clues.

    The body, which is currently in an advanced state of decomposition due to prolonged exposure, may require DNA testing or dental records to confirm the identity. Authorities are awaiting final confirmation regarding whether the remains indeed belong to Baumgertner.

    Winter storms have complicated the search efforts, which have included the use of drones and personnel from the British Bases. Despite these challenges, the authorities remain dedicated to bringing closure to this case.

    Vladislav Baumgertner, who has been living in Limassol, has made headlines for his role in the Russian potash industry, particularly during his time with Uralkali. His disappearance has sparked significant media interest both locally and internationally.

  • Corruption — Former Supreme Court Judge Leads Investigation into Presidential Corruption Allegations

    Corruption — Former Supreme Court Judge Leads Investigation into Presidential Corruption Allegations

    corruption — The focus keyword, corruption, is at the heart of an independent investigation led by Andreas Paschalides, a former Supreme Court Judge. Appointed by the Attorney General, Paschalides will oversee a probe into a video that has sparked allegations of misconduct within the presidential palace.

    This appointment was officially announced on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, by the Law Office. It comes in response to mounting pressure from both government coalition partners and opposition parties who demand a transparent inquiry into the serious claims raised by the footage.

    Andreas Paschalides, who also chairs the Independent Authority for the Investigation of Allegations and Complaints against the Police, has been empowered with extensive investigative authority. He will work closely with the Cyprus Police to examine potential criminal offences linked to individuals depicted in the video.

    Crucially, the investigation will delve into the video’s content, its authenticity, and the circumstances surrounding its creation. The footage first appeared on social media platform “X” on 8 January, uploaded by an account under the name “Emily Thompson.” This timeline is pivotal as it marks the beginning of the controversy that has since engulfed the presidential administration.

    The current administration, led by President Christodoulides, is experiencing a significant domestic crisis, with the President labelling the video leak a Russian-led “hybrid attack.” This accusation underscores the administration’s concerns about foreign interference during its tenure as the EU Council Presidency.

    Paschalides has been instructed to expedite the investigation, aiming for completion within three months. The probe’s outcomes are expected to be crucial, particularly for high-ranking officials, including Charalambos Charalambous, the former Director of the President’s Office, who resigned shortly after the video’s release.

    The Law Office has made it clear that Paschalides’ mandate encompasses any related issues that may arise during the investigation, allowing him a broad scope over the internal workings of the presidency during the time in question.

  • Government Denies Claims of Illegal Campaign Financing Involving Christodoulides

    Government Denies Claims of Illegal Campaign Financing Involving Christodoulides

    christodoulides — The government has dismissed allegations of illegal campaign financing involving President Nikos Christodoulides as fake news. A video circulating on social media purportedly reveals how wealthy investors can bypass campaign donation laws through cash payments, but officials have labelled it as malicious and edited.

    Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis stated on Thursday that the video is an attempt to tarnish the image of both the government and the country. He remarked, “This video attempts to damage the image of the government and country through false, misleading claims and arbitrary conclusions.” An initial assessment by the relevant state service has led the government to conclude that the video has been manipulated.

    In a subsequent update, Letymbiotis informed the public that authorities are investigating the video as a potential hybrid attack against the Republic of Cyprus. This investigation follows a complaint filed by former energy minister George Lakkotrypis, who appears in the footage.

    Lakkotrypis has claimed that the video was released from a fake profile and distorted the context of his conversations with supposed investors. He expressed concern that the video aims not only to harm his reputation but also to undermine the Republic of Cyprus and its president. He pointed out that the video’s release coincided with Cyprus assuming the presidency of the Council of the European Union, suggesting a deliberate timing to create controversy.

    In a detailed statement, Lakkotrypis said, “It is evident from the video that the statements attributed to me have been edited to distort the context of the discussions, with the ultimate aim of damaging our country, the president of the Republic himself and me personally. It is no coincidence that the video was leaked one day after the opening ceremony of the Cypriot presidency of the Council of the EU.” He confirmed that he would provide the police with all the evidence he has gathered in relation to the matter.

    The video’s impact has spurred political reactions, with several parties criticising the government following its release. Local media outlet Philenews published the video, clarifying that it does not endorse its content but acknowledges the need to inform the public due to the ongoing police investigation.

    As the investigation unfolds, the government continues to assert that the claims are unfounded, while the implications of the video remain a topic of intense discussion within the political landscape of Cyprus.

  • Political Parties Demand Clarity on Alleged Illegal Campaign Financing of Christodoulides

    Political Parties Demand Clarity on Alleged Illegal Campaign Financing of Christodoulides

    illegal campaign — illegal campaign — Political parties are raising serious concerns over a video that suggests illegal financing during the 2023 presidential campaign, focusing on the actions of President Nikos Christodoulides. The clip, which has gained traction on platform X, highlights potential misconduct regarding monetary support for the campaign and hints at questionable access for investors to the Presidential Palace.

    Opposition leaders have reacted swiftly, calling for immediate transparency from the government. Annita Demetriou, president of the Democratic Rally (DISY), expressed her alarm, stating, “For quite some time now, a video has been circulating that implicates people and the government in illegal practices. I hope it does not correspond to reality. I expect the competent authorities to do the obvious.”

    Stefanos Stefanou, the general secretary of the Progressive Party of Working People (AKEL), echoed this sentiment, emphasising the need for clear answers regarding the funding issues tied to the Christodoulides administration. “The video circulating on social media raises serious institutional and political issues to which the government must give clear answers. We are waiting and will return to this,” he remarked.

    Adding to the chorus of discontent, MP Irene Charalambidou described the video as shocking, emphasising the urgency for an official statement from the government. “If I understand correctly, we are watching a shocking video that features the government with its associated businesspeople! There must be an immediate statement because we will have worse than the assistant’s resignation and the tragicomic events! Now there is also footage. Is it true? Or not?”

    Charalambidou directly called on government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis to provide clarity on the situation. Meanwhile, MP Alexandra Attalides remarked sarcastically on the early challenges faced by Christodoulides’ presidency, saying, “Our presidency is starting very well, Nikos Christodoulides. When we talked to you about transparency, you called us toxic!”

    As pressure mounts, the lack of an official response from the Presidential Palace is notable. The government faces a critical decision: to deny the allegations outright or to clarify the authenticity and content of the video that has sparked such uproar.

    The video has not only ignited political tension but has also prompted discussions about the integrity of the electoral process in Cyprus. It raises questions about how the handling of campaign financing could impact public trust in the government.

    In a separate but related development, former minister Emily Thompson shared a tweet suggesting the video uncovers a significant breach of campaign finance laws, alleging that the President exceeded the €1 million campaign finance cap through questionable means involving a family network. “Can’t even describe what I just received! BREAKING BOMBSHELL VIDEO EXPOSES CYPRUS PRESIDENT’S SHADOW CASH MACHINE!” she wrote.

    Philenews has published the video in question, clarifying that it does not endorse its content. They indicated that the matter has been referred to the police for investigation, underlining the seriousness of the allegations.

  • Nicosia fire — Nicosia fire: Nicosia Christmas Fire Victim Died from Soot Inhalation

    Nicosia fire — Nicosia fire: Nicosia Christmas Fire Victim Died from Soot Inhalation

    nicosia fire — nicosia fire — A post-mortem examination has confirmed that the victim of a tragic fire in Nicosia on Christmas Day died from soot inhalation. This finding suggests that the individual was alive when the fire broke out and inhaled smoke before being engulfed by flames.

    The autopsy, conducted on Sunday, December 28, 2025, by medical examiners Angeliki Papetta and Orthodoxos Orthodoxou, highlights the dire circumstances surrounding the incident. The victim was found burned beyond recognition in a rooftop storage room of an apartment building, a discovery made shortly after midnight on Christmas Day.

    Nicosia fire: Challenges in Identification

    Due to the severe condition of the remains, identifying the victim is proving to be a complex task. Authorities have indicated that identification will rely on DNA testing, raising concerns about the victim’s next of kin. Locating family members to obtain comparative DNA samples is a significant challenge for investigators.

    Forensic Investigations Underway

    As part of the autopsy process, forensic experts collected blood samples and teeth for laboratory analysis. These efforts aim not only to assist in identification but also to check for any underlying health issues that may have contributed to the victim’s death.

    Unanswered Questions Surrounding the Blaze

    The cause of the fire that led to this tragedy remains unclear. A joint investigation is currently being conducted by the Police, the Fire Service, and the Electromechanical Services. Their aim is to determine whether the blaze was an unfortunate accident or if there are indications of a criminal act.

    As the investigation continues, the community grapples with the shock of the incident. Local officials have expressed their condolences and are urging anyone with information related to the fire to come forward.