Family members plead not guilty to child abuse charges in Famagusta

A 46-year-old father, his 23-year-old daughter, and his 21-year-old son appeared before the Famagusta Permanent Criminal Court on September 8, 2026, to face 122 charges related to the systemic abuse of minor children within their family. The offenses are alleged to have occurred between 2013 and May 2026.

The charges against the three defendants include physical and psychological abuse, kidnapping, indecent assault, sexual harassment, attempted sexual abuse, and degrading treatment. According to the indictment, the minors were subjected to years of inhumane living conditions, including physical violence, food deprivation, and severe restrictions on their personal freedom. The court heard that the father allegedly used a belt to beat his children and restricted access to basic necessities like food.

All three defendants entered pleas of not guilty to the 122 counts. The court ordered that the accused remain in custody and scheduled the hearing to commence on November 18, 2026. The court also granted a prosecution request for the proceedings to be held behind closed doors to protect the privacy and wellbeing of the minor victims who are expected to testify.