Cyprus police form investigative team for the mafia state case

Cyprus police have officially established an investigative team to assist independent criminal investigators in the "Mafia State" case. The new unit, based at the Police Headquarters’ Crime Combating Department, includes seven officers—four sergeants, two constables, and one special constable. This team will support five independent criminal investigators, led by Vasileios Skouris, alongside Ilias Anagnostopoulos and three Cypriot lawyers, who were appointed following the recusal of the Attorney-General and his deputy.

The case stems from a two-year investigation by the Independent Authority Against Corruption into allegations detailed in the book "Mafia State." The findings suggest potential criminal liability for 15 individuals, including former President Nicos Anastasiades, who faces allegations of trading in influence and abuse of power. In a recent legal development, Nicos Anastasiades’ law firm has filed a court challenge against the Authority, demanding access to the full investigation report. This marks the first such legal challenge against the oversight body, and future proceedings are expected to clarify the transparency and accessibility of these sensitive investigative documents.