Anti-Corruption Authority faces scrutiny over black surveillance van case

The Independent Authority Against Corruption in Cyprus is under fire regarding its handling of the controversial surveillance 'black van' case. Critics have raised concerns over the timing of the investigation, potential political interference, lack of transparency regarding initial findings, and the financial burden of re-investigating a matter that has already been examined twice. Transparency Commissioner Charis Poyiatzis initially claimed on March 11, 2026, during the election period, that the Authority was investigating the matter, though it later emerged that no formal investigation had actually commenced at that time.

Despite the controversy, the Authority is preparing to move forward by submitting specific terms of reference to Attorney General George Savvides. The investigation will focus on the connections between Tal Dilian, various political figures, and state services. It will also address specific allegations against Assistant Attorney General Savvas Angelides and incorporate findings from Fanis Makridis's book, 'Cyprus: The Hub of Surveillance.' A team consisting of two British investigators and one Cypriot lawyer has been selected to lead the probe. The Authority is expected to finalize these terms of reference in the coming week to resolve outstanding questions surrounding the surveillance scandal.