Health ministry investigates unauthorized plasmapheresis centers in Larnaca

The Cyprus Ministry of Health has filed a formal complaint with the police regarding medical centers in Larnaca that were performing unauthorized plasmapheresis procedures. The investigation follows a surge in public debate regarding the safety of such treatments, exacerbated by the recent death of popular Greek singer George Mazonakis in Athens. Authorities conducted surprise inspections on Friday, September 11, 2026, where they discovered medical equipment, including plasmapheresis machines, at two specific premises in Larnaca. Health Minister Neofytos Charalambides has ordered a 15-day island-wide mapping of all medical facilities to ensure regulatory compliance.

This incident involves a facility that had previously been investigated in 2022 and 2023. Reports indicate the center had operated under different names and had allegedly been damaged by a bombing in 2024 before reopening. The Ministry of Health has requested the suspension of activities at the identified locations. While the ministry can act against licensed entities, the police are now handling the legal investigation into whether these specific operations violated private hospital and medical equipment legislation. The management of the involved center has referred the matter to their legal counsel and declined further comment.