The VideoGate findings will be reviewed by a team of senior officials at the Legal Service to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to support possible corruption-related offences involving two individuals who allegedly received money from operatives of the private intelligence firm Black Cube.
The review will focus on the Council of Europe Criminal Law Convention on Corruption (Ratification) Law of 2000, including provisions relating to bribery, trading in influence and money laundering.
Two key references in findings
Although independent criminal investigator Andreas Paschalides concluded that the evidence gathered so far does not establish offences under the Criminal Code, two references in his findings have attracted particular attention.
The first relates to confidentiality and service agreements signed between three Cypriot participants and the purported investors, under which two individuals reportedly obtained financial benefits.
The second concerns allegations examined under anti-corruption legislation based on the actions, representations, promises, statements and overall conduct of those involved.
While Paschalides noted that investigators had examined this possibility, he also stated that both he and the police investigative team had reservations about whether such offences could ultimately be substantiated.
Financial gain highlighted
In his announcement, Paschalides referred to individuals featured in the recordings who made statements intended to create an impression around their influence and status for the purpose of obtaining personal financial gain, adding that some had already begun receiving economic benefits.
The findings have prompted debate over whether those actions warrant further examination under corruption legislation.
Black Cube stands by its claims
In a new statement sent to Politis, Black Cube reiterated its position that the evidence it gathered revealed incidents of corruption in Cyprus.
The company said the authenticity of its material had been verified by Cypriot authorities and expressed confidence that the Legal Service's final assessment would result in those responsible being brought before justice.
Company rejects wrongdoing claims
Black Cube described itself as a private intelligence company providing services to commercial clients involved in litigation, arbitration and financial crime investigations worldwide.
The company said it obtains legal advice in every jurisdiction where it operates to ensure compliance with local laws.
"Corruption harms economies and hinders legitimate business activity," the company said, adding that it remains fully behind the evidence it collected in Cyprus.
Awaiting Legal Service assessment
The Legal Service is now expected to assess whether the evidence supports possible offences under anti-corruption legislation.
The outcome could determine whether any further legal action is taken against individuals who appear in the recordings.
