Movement Alma raises questions over criminal investigation into journalist Makarios Drousiotis

The political movement Alma has formally questioned the launch of a criminal investigation against investigative journalist Makarios Drousiotis. The probe stems from a complaint filed by a police officer who was named in Drousiotis’s 2022 book, "Kratos Mafia" (Mafia State). The officer, reportedly identified in the text as a member of the Cyprus Intelligence Service (KYP), alleges a violation of personal data that supposedly occurred four years ago.

Alma has highlighted the suspicious timing of this investigation, noting that it coincides with ongoing criminal probes into the serious allegations originally detailed in Drousiotis’s book. The movement is demanding transparency regarding the origins of the current case against the journalist. Specifically, they are calling for the Attorney General and the Assistant Attorney General to clarify who authorized the commencement of this inquiry, questioning whether the legal action is a retaliatory measure linked to the author's previous disclosures.

The 2022 publication of "Kratos Mafia" is recognized for its investigative depth, having previously led to findings by an Independent Authority. As the criminal investigation into Drousiotis proceeds, critics remain concerned that the timing of the complaint could undermine broader efforts to address the allegations of institutional corruption raised in the book.