Trial begins in Cyprus 'golden passports' case

The trial regarding the controversial Cyprus Investment Programme, widely known as the 'golden passports' case, commenced on Monday at the Nicosia Criminal Court. The proceedings involve ten defendants, including former Transport Minister Marios Demetriades, who face a total of 84 charges, such as corruption, bribery, and money laundering related to the naturalization of foreign investors.

During the opening session, a police officer from the Criminal Investigation Department testified as the first prosecution witness. The court received 29 exhibits, primarily consisting of documentation and application files from the Interior Ministry concerning 19 investors from China and Cambodia. Prosecutor Haris Karaolidou noted that some initial documents would not be pursued, while defense attorney Ilias Stefanou indicated his intent to challenge specific upcoming exhibits. The panel is presided over by Judge Lefteris Panteli.

The case stems from historical investigations into the irregular approval of passports for foreign investors. The proceedings are set to continue on Tuesday, October 20, at 9:30 a.m., when further testimony and evidence submissions are expected to follow.