All evidence collected following the allegations made by Makarios Drousiotis will be sent to Europol for forensic examination, Justice and Public Order Minister Kostas Fytiris said on Wednesday.
Speaking after the Cabinet meeting, during which the progress of the investigations was discussed, Fytiris said the material gathered by authorities would be immediately forwarded to Europol for forensic analysis.
Based on the results, he added, he will return to the Cabinet with a new update so that the necessary decisions can be taken in accordance with its responsibilities and the Criminal Procedure Law.
“The President of the Republic had requested that the Cabinet be informed about the progress of the investigations concerning the public allegations made by Mr Drousiotis,” Fytiris said, noting that he briefed ministers on the stage the investigation has currently reached and on the evidence that can be submitted for forensic examination.
He explained that, following this briefing and in line with all legal procedures, the evidence secured so far will be sent immediately to Europol for forensic analysis.
Once the results are received, the Minister will again inform the Cabinet so that it can decide on the next steps within its legal powers.
Responding to questions, Fytiris confirmed that the evidence will be sent immediately to Europol, describing it as an independent service, while the results are expected after Easter.
Asked whether the issue of appointing an independent investigator had been discussed, the Justice Minister said that once the Europol findings are received, the Cabinet will decide whether such a step is necessary.
He also noted that investigations are ongoing, with police continuing to collect testimonies and evidence.
Commenting on claims by Drousiotis that witnesses may be threatened, Fytiris said that anyone who feels threatened should report the matter to the police. He added that the authorities will continue the investigation, send the evidence to Europol and await the results before further decisions are taken.