Investigation launched into journalist Makarios Drousiotis's crowdfunding campaign

Journalist and author Makarios Drousiotis is facing a police investigation into his online fundraising campaign launched on the GoGetFunding platform. The initiative, titled 'I ask for your help to defend the truth', aims to cover legal expenses and forensic costs associated with ongoing litigation. As of August 11, 2026, the campaign had raised approximately €47,000 from over 700 donors.

Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou requested the police probe to determine if the campaign violates the Fundraising Law, which requires official authorization and oversight by a designated committee. Drousiotis has denied the allegations, stating he received legal advice confirming the campaign is a form of crowdfunding, not a charitable fundraiser. He cited similar past campaigns, such as those by the APOEL sports club, which did not face such scrutiny. The Minister later clarified that the investigation is a procedural step and no one will be prosecuted if the activity is found to be compliant with the law.

The Cyprus Journalists' Union has expressed deep concern, highlighting that Drousiotis is currently the subject of three separate criminal investigations, including allegations of spreading fake news and privacy violations. The Union warned of potential risks to freedom of expression and suggested that the rapid succession of investigations against a single journalist could indicate targeted harassment.