Independent investigators begin Mafia State case probe in Cyprus

A team of independent criminal investigators, including two experts from Greece, officially began their work on Monday regarding the Mafia State case in Cyprus. The team met with the Minister of Justice and Public Order and the Deputy Chief of Police at the Filoxenia Conference Center to discuss organizational and procedural matters. This investigation follows a report by the Independent Anti-Corruption Authority, which examined allegations of corruption made in Makarios Drousiotis' book, Mafia State. The report suggests potential criminal liability for former president Nicos Anastasiades and other officials. While the initial team was formed in July, one member was replaced by criminologist Ilias Anagnostopoulos last week. Police spokesperson Vyron Vyronos confirmed that the police are not currently involved in the investigation and are waiting for instructions from the independent team. The police chief, Themistos Arnaoutis, possesses the anti-corruption report but it has not yet been reviewed by the force. The government has provided the investigators with office space and administrative support to ensure their full independence.