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Tag: Terrorism

  • Terrorism — Terrorism-Related Sentence Increased by Appeals Court

    Terrorism — Terrorism-Related Sentence Increased by Appeals Court

    A recent ruling has seen the sentence of a man convicted of terrorism-related offences doubled by an Appeals Court. The man, now 28, was arrested in Limassol in January 2021, where he was subsequently found guilty of serious charges that warranted a prison sentence.

    • This ruling signals a firm stance on terrorism-related offences by the judicial system, reflecting a commitment to addressing threats to public safety decisively.

    The initial sentence handed down by the criminal court was two years, a decision that the attorney-general’s office deemed too lenient. Following this, they lodged an appeal against the ruling. The Appeals Court reviewed the case and delivered its judgment last week, agreeing to double the sentence to four years.

    In its assessment, the Appeals Court upheld the criminal court’s findings, which revealed significant and concerning evidence on the defendant’s mobile phone. Authorities found extensive materials related to the manufacture of bombs and makeshift explosive devices, along with hazardous chemical and biological substances. Furthermore, the phone contained instructional videos detailing how to execute attacks on various public venues, including restaurants, buses, and nightclubs.

    The criminal court had cited the nature and volume of these instructional materials as indicative of a person preparing to commit acts of terrorism. The Appeals Court also dismissed arguments put forth by the defence attorney, who contended that the original court had misinterpreted the defendant’s intentions and had placed undue weight on his ideological beliefs and political opinions.

    This ruling signals a firm stance on terrorism-related offences by the judicial system, reflecting a commitment to addressing threats to public safety decisively.

  • Azeri national — Cyprus Supreme Court Upholds Arrest Warrant for Azeri National in Espionage Case

    Azeri national — Cyprus Supreme Court Upholds Arrest Warrant for Azeri National in Espionage Case

    The Cyprus Supreme Court has upheld the arrest warrant for an Azeri national, detained since June 2025, on suspicion of terrorism and espionage involving British military bases.

    • The Cyprus Supreme Court has upheld the arrest warrant for an Azeri national, detained since June 2025, on suspicion of terrorism and espionage involving British military bases.

    Azeri national: Legal Ruling on Arrest Warrant

    The Supreme Court’s decision came after an appeal was lodged by the suspect’s lawyer, Efstathios Efstathiou, challenging the validity of the warrants issued on 21 June 2025. The appeal argued that the warrants were based on unreliable intelligence and that the court had failed to apply the necessary scrutiny for information deemed anonymous or secret.

    Dismissal of the Appeal

    In its ruling, the Supreme Court dismissed the appeal, asserting that the District Court had acted within legal parameters and conducted a thorough assessment of the evidence. The court clarified that the intelligence gathered was from a “foreign collaborating service” rather than an unreliable third country, which was crucial in justifying the warrants.

    Charges Against the Suspect

    The charges against the Azeri national include conspiracy to commit a felony and various offences under the Law on Combating Terrorism. The Supreme Court highlighted that initial intelligence suggested the suspect was gathering information regarding foreign military presence and potentially organising a terrorist attack.

    Intelligence and Surveillance

    Crucially, the Supreme Court noted that the intelligence was corroborated by subsequent physical surveillance conducted by Cypriot authorities. This combination of intelligence and observation led the court to conclude that there was sufficient justification for the issuance of the warrants.

    Statements from the Court

    The Supreme Court stated, “We judge that the trial court conducted a comprehensive and correct assessment of the totality of the evidence and evaluated every relevant element to conclude that the issuance of the warrants was justified.” This assertion reinforces the court’s confidence in the legal processes followed in the case.

    International Implications

    The case highlights the complex interplay between national security and international relations, particularly concerning allegations of espionage linked to foreign entities. The involvement of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the case has raised concerns about broader implications for regional security.

    Ongoing Developments

    As the case proceeds, it remains to be seen how the legal proceedings will unfold and whether further developments may arise that could impact the suspect’s status or the broader context of espionage in Cyprus.

    Community Reaction

    The case has sparked interest and concern within the local community and among legal experts, prompting discussions about the balance between civil liberties and national security. The ongoing scrutiny of intelligence practices and legal standards in such cases is likely to continue as the situation develops.

  • 9 11: Cyprus Commemorates 9/11 Victims on 24th Anniversary

    9 11: Cyprus Commemorates 9/11 Victims on 24th Anniversary

    9 11 — 9 11 — Cyprus has paid tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, marking the 24th anniversary of this tragic event. The foreign ministry issued a heartfelt message on social media platform X, reflecting on the profound impact of that day.

    11: Remembering Lives Lost and Lives Changed

    In its post, the foreign ministry stated, “Today marks 24 years since the heinous terrorist attacks of 9/11. We remember the thousands of innocent victims, the first responders, and all those whose lives have been affected in the most horrific way.” This poignant reminder underscores the lasting scars left by the attacks on individuals, families, and communities.

    The Events of September 11, 2001

    The September 11 attacks, commonly referred to as 9/11, were a series of coordinated suicide attacks orchestrated by the extremist group al-Qaeda. Nineteen terrorists hijacked four commercial airliners that fateful day. Two of the planes were flown into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Centre in New York City, resulting in catastrophic destruction and loss of life.

    The third plane struck the Pentagon, the headquarters of the US Department of Defence, located in Arlington County, Virginia. The fourth aircraft, United Airlines Flight 93, was headed towards a target in Washington, D.C., but crashed in a rural Pennsylvania field following a brave revolt by passengers. In total, nearly 3,000 lives were lost, making it one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in history.

    Commemorative Events and Reflections

    Across the globe, various nations and communities participate in commemorative events to honour the memory of the victims and first responders. In Cyprus, the tribute served not only as a remembrance but also as a reaffirmation of solidarity with the United States in the ongoing fight against terrorism. The foreign ministry’s message stressed the importance of unity in confronting such challenges.

    Continuing the Fight Against Terrorism

    The statement concluded with a powerful commitment: “Honouring their memory, we reaffirm our determination to stand together with the United States in the continuous fight against terrorism in all its forms.” This sentiment echoes the enduring global resolve to combat terrorism, ensuring that the sacrifices made on 9/11 are not forgotten.

    Global Remembrance Initiatives

    Many countries observe moments of silence or organise memorial services on September 11 each year. In the United States, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City serves as a central site of remembrance, where visitors pay their respects to those who lost their lives. The museum offers insights into the events of that day and the subsequent impact on global politics and security.

    In addition to these memorials, various educational initiatives have been launched globally to inform future generations about the significance of 9/11 and the importance of tolerance, understanding, and peace. These efforts aim to combat the ideologies that fuel extremism and promote a more inclusive world.

    Personal Stories from 9/11

    Each year, families of the victims share their stories, ensuring that the personal impact of the attacks remains at the forefront of collective memory. These narratives often highlight the resilience of those affected and the ongoing struggles they face in the aftermath of such profound loss. Many families have established foundations and charitable organisations in honour of their loved ones, focusing on various causes such as education, health, and community support.

    The stories of first responders, too, are crucial to the narrative of 9/11. Firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical personnel risked their lives to save others, with many suffering long-term health issues as a result of their heroic actions. Their dedication serves as a reminder of the bravery and selflessness displayed in the face of unimaginable adversity.

    Looking Ahead

    As the world reflects on the 24th anniversary of 9/11, it is essential to remember not only the tragic loss of life but also the lessons learned. The enduring quest for peace and security continues to shape international relations and national policies. Nations, including Cyprus, recognise the need for unity in confronting the threats posed by terrorism.

    The tribute by the Cypriot foreign ministry is a reminder of the importance of remembrance and the collective responsibility to prevent such tragedies from occurring again. By honouring the victims and reaffirming commitments to fight against terrorism, Cyprus joins a global movement dedicated to creating a safer and more peaceful world.

  • Kenan ayaz — Kenan Ayaz Returns to Cyprus to Serve His Prison Sentence

    Kenan ayaz — Kenan Ayaz Returns to Cyprus to Serve His Prison Sentence

    Kenan Ayaz has returned to Cyprus to serve his remaining prison sentence after being convicted of being a member of a proscribed terrorist organisation. His return from Germany, where he had been detained for over two years, marks a significant moment for the Kurdish community in Cyprus.

    Ayaz, a Kurdish politician, faced a European arrest warrant and was arrested at Larnaca airport in March 2023. His situation escalated when a German court sentenced him in September 2024 to four years and three months in prison for his alleged membership in the Kurdish Workers’ Party (PKK). The PKK has been designated a terrorist organisation by the European Union since 2002, a classification that Turkey has long championed, viewing the group as a substantial security threat.

    The Observatory for the Trial of Kenan Ayaz, an advocacy group, celebrated his return as a “great day” for the Kurdish community, stating that Ayaz had come back “to continue his struggle with all of us, for a world without oppression, occupation and genocide.” They expressed that his prosecution in Germany was a “blow to human rights” and highlighted the adverse conditions he endured during his imprisonment.

    Ayaz’s case illustrates the complexities surrounding the Kurdish movement in Europe, where advocates argue that political motivations drive the criminalisation of individuals involved. The group noted Ayaz’s belief that the struggle of the Cypriot people against Turkish occupation aligns with the quest for Kurdish freedom, urging for the rule of law to prevail in Cyprus amidst what they termed “political hypocrisy.”

    In a notable turn of events, the PKK announced in 2025 that it would lay down its arms, marking an end to its 41-year-long armed struggle against Turkey. This development adds another layer to the ongoing discourse regarding the PKK and its members, especially in Europe, where various legal actions have been taken against individuals associated with the movement.