Criminal investigation launched into suspicious prison guard sick leave in Cyprus

Cypriot authorities have launched a criminal investigation into potential fraud concerning the systemic issuance of sick leave certificates to prison staff. The probe, led by the Police Headquarters' Criminal Investigation Department (TAE), follows a report from the Audit Office submitted to the Legal Service in March 2026. The investigation focuses on allegations of collusion between two doctors—a general practitioner and an orthopedist—and several prison officers to bypass the statutory 42-day annual sick leave limit.

Evidence highlights extreme cases of absenteeism, such as a prison officer who allegedly submitted 111 medical certificates over two years to justify over 200 days of absence annually. Audit findings indicate that 171 individuals exceeded the sick leave threshold, with 34 doing so consecutively over three years. Official reports suggest that in one extreme case, 95% of a guard's medical certificates were issued by the two primary doctors now under scrutiny.

The investigation remains in its early stages and may take several months to conclude. Police spokesperson Byron Byronos confirmed that authorities are gathering extensive statements and may examine the doctors' digital records. Once concluded, the case file will be forwarded to the Attorney-General's office for further legal action.