Police investigate humiliating TikTok video involving a person with disabilities
Cypriot authorities are investigating a case involving a viral TikTok livestream in which individuals encouraged a person with Down syndrome to perform acts that undermined his dignity. The incident, which caused significant public outrage, was reportedly first reported to the Cybercrime Subdirectorate on June 1, 2026, by the Pancyprian Organization for the Rehabilitation of Disabled Persons. Critics, including disability rights groups, expressed frustration over the perceived lack of timely action by the police, who initially claimed they could not identify the suspects.
Following renewed public pressure, the police secured court warrants and arrested two suspects on July 22, 2026, followed by a third arrest on July 23. The two initial suspects were brought before the Nicosia District Court on July 23 to request a detention order to facilitate further investigations. However, the court denied the police request, and the individuals were not remanded in custody. The police investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to collect evidence and take statements to determine if criminal offenses have been committed.