Appeals court denies bail for rape suspect in Famagusta

On July 23, 2026, the Appeals Court of Cyprus upheld a decision by the Famagusta District Court to keep a defendant in custody until his trial before the Famagusta Assize Court. The suspect faces four serious charges, including rape, sexual assault, and harassment, all allegedly committed against the same complainant at the same time and location. The defendant had appealed the initial detention order, arguing that there was insufficient evidence for a conviction and that his personal circumstances did not suggest a flight risk.

In its ruling, the Appeals Court rejected these arguments, concluding that the lower court had correctly exercised its discretion. The judges emphasized that the evidence presented established a sufficient probability of conviction. Furthermore, the court highlighted that the defendant’s established ties to areas outside the control of the Republic of Cyprus created a genuine risk that he might attempt to flee and fail to appear for the legal proceedings. Consequently, the detention order remains in effect as the case proceeds toward the main trial.