The Minister of Justice, Kostas Fytiris, said on Thursday that targeting ostensibly lawful businesses can form part of the state’s strategy against organised crime, commenting on the non-renewal of a betting company’s licence.
Speaking on the programme “Alpha Kalimera,” Fytiris stated that organised crime often operates through businesses that appear legitimate, and that the state’s objective is to disrupt such structures.
“This is a collective effort,” he said, adding that it involves not only the Police but also the Unit for Combating Money Laundering (MOKAS), the Tax Department and other authorities responsible for licensing and oversight.
Betting company licence suspended
Asked about the non-renewal of the licence of betting company BookieCo, linked to a 47-year-old businessman who was arrested following a shooting incident in Larnaca, Fytiris said the competent authority had suspended the licences.
“I do not know the exact reason,” he said, “but it is very likely related to recent events.”
He added that the state has the power to suspend the operation of businesses that appear lawful, describing this as “a way to strike at organised crime.”
Annie Alexui allegations
Fytiris also addressed allegations and claims made by Annie Alexui, stating that they will be investigated.
“We are seeking and will soon find the appropriate institutional way for the evidence to be handed over so that it can be examined properly,” he said.
He stressed that evidence cannot be submitted via social media or telephone and must follow formal legal procedures. “Soon we will find a way for Ms Fotiou, who holds information, to deliver it safely so it can be investigated under the laws of the state,” he added.
The minister cautioned that it is not possible at this stage to determine whether the claims are true or unfounded, noting that names may be mentioned without sufficient evidence to substantiate a case.
At the same time, he acknowledged the human dimension of the claims, saying that if the allegations concerning her personal experiences prove accurate, “that is a different dimension that causes sadness.”
Fytiris said he had issued political instructions, alongside the President of the Republic, for all information referenced by Ms Fotiou to be examined in accordance with regulations and laws. If evidence substantiates a case, he said, it will be brought before the courts.
Allegations involving police officers
Responding to questions about whether authorities are prepared to investigate allegations concerning members of the Police or other state services, Fytiris said that no institution is immune.
“In every organisation there are individuals vulnerable to easy and illicit money,” he said, noting that within a force of 5,000 to 6,000 people, there may be some who break the law.
He emphasised that the objective is to remove such individuals from the force to ensure the Police remains credible and capable of fulfilling its mandate.
Central prisons and mobile signal blocking
On organised crime operating from within the Central Prisons, the minister said efforts are under way to address the phenomenon. He linked this to plans for a new correctional facility.
Until then, he said, measures must be implemented at the existing prison complex to ensure proper isolation and security.
“What is currently missing is the system that blocks mobile phone signals,” he noted, adding that it is expected to be operational within two to three months.
Authorities currently have a system capable of detecting mobile phones activated inside the prison, but not one that disables signals.
Legal service statement
In a separate statement, the Legal Service of the Republic said it has nothing further to add to earlier remarks.
It confirmed that statements made by Ms Fotiou in various videos are being evaluated in full coordination with the Ministry of Justice and Public Order and the Police. Further action will follow once decisions are taken.
“At this stage, we cannot provide any additional statements or details,” the Legal Service said.