Criminal investigation launched against author Makarios Drousiotis over his book

A new criminal investigation has been initiated against journalist and author Makarios Drousiotis regarding alleged personal data violations in his book, "Mafia State." The formal inquiry was launched on August 8, 2026, four years after the book's initial publication. Authorities are scrutinizing the research and documentation process used to produce the work, which has drawn sharp criticism from the author regarding the state of press freedom in Cyprus.

According to Drousiotis, the police department’s Criminal Investigation Department (TAE) has expanded its scope to request testimonies from the printer, editor, and designer involved in the book's production. Drousiotis has publicly condemned the move as an attempt to criminalize investigative journalism and suppress dissent. He argued that the current legal action reflects a broader systemic degradation of the rule of law and transparency within the country, further noting that this is not an isolated incident but a continuation of legal pressures he has faced, including previous allegations of spreading false information.

The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities currently reviewing the materials to determine if any privacy laws were breached. Drousiotis has called for public and institutional support, framing the case as a matter of fundamental importance to the freedom of expression and democratic accountability in Cyprus.