A sense of deep relief and vindication prevailed on Wednesday at Strovolos Gymnastic Club “Keravnos” following the return of Andreas and Annie Kyprianou after their detention in the north which lasted months, just days after the release of Akis and Nicoletta Grigoriou.
This development brings to an end a harsh five-month ordeal during which the four individuals as well as Antonis Louka were detained in the north under unsubstantiated and fabricated accusations. The five Greek Cypriots had been arrested on 19 July 2025 and have now safely returned to their families and their everyday life.
In a statement, Keravnos Strovolou expressed its sincere thanks to everyone who contributed in any way to ending what it described as an unjust and unlawful detention. The club referred to a long legal, political, communicative and social “marathon”, marked by meaningful support and collective mobilisation.
Solidarity from Turkish Cypriots
Particular reference was made to the stance of Turkish Cypriot citizens, ordinary people, lawyers, journalists and sports officials, who, despite the circumstances, demonstrated practical solidarity and humanity, proving that compassion transcends borders and ethnic divisions.
Despite the relief at the positive outcome, the club voiced deep concern and anger over the illegal detention, inhumane treatment and unjustified suspicion endured by the detainees, noting that under similar conditions any citizen of the Republic of Cyprus could have found themselves in the same position.
Finally, special thanks were extended to those who stood by the detainees and their families on a daily basis, offering crucial financial, medical, psychological and practical support - a contribution described as decisive in securing the case’s successful resolution.