The government has decided to bring in the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to assist ongoing investigations linked to allegations made by Makarios Drousiotis, more than three weeks after the claims first surfaced.
President Nikos Christodoulides announced the move during a Cabinet meeting, confirming that a specialised FBI team will travel to Cyprus to support the authorities, particularly in analysing testimonies and evidence.
The decision comes 22 days after the initial publication of the allegations, at a stage when the police investigation is already well advanced and forensic analysis by Europol is nearing completion.
Role of the FBI team
The incoming team is expected to be part of the FBI’s Behavioural Analysis Units, which specialise in complex criminal cases, including those involving technology and online activity. The unit typically includes forensic analysts, psychologists and criminologists.
Their role will be advisory. They are expected to review the progress of the investigation, examine evidence and witness statements, and provide guidance on possible next steps. This may include recommending additional testimonies or identifying gaps in the investigative process.
Authorities indicated that the FBI experts will also take into account the findings of the forensic examination conducted by Europol, which is expected within days. That report is considered a key element in determining the authenticity of messages and digital material linked to the case.
Government position
Speaking to Cabinet, the President said the investigation is at an advanced stage, with continuous evaluation of evidence and close cooperation with Europol.
He noted that the request for FBI assistance was made last week directly to the US government and was met with an immediate positive response.
The aim, he said, is to ensure a thorough investigation while strengthening public trust in institutions, emphasising the importance of international cooperation in complex cases.
Drousiotis reaction
The decision triggered a strong reaction from Makarios Drousiotis, who criticised the move in a public post, arguing that reliance on foreign agencies undermines state institutions.
He questioned why independent criminal investigators had not been appointed locally, suggesting that such a step would be more appropriate. He also referred to previous instances where foreign agencies were involved in Cyprus without clear outcomes.
Drousiotis argued that bringing in external bodies instead of appointing independent local investigators raises concerns about transparency and accountability.
Legal challenge over search warrant
Meanwhile, a legal challenge has been filed seeking to annul a search warrant issued for the home and office of lawyer Nikos Clerides.
The application, submitted through the i-justice system, also seeks to bar the judge who issued the warrant from further involvement and to suspend any examination of seized devices.
Lawyer Christos Clerides, representing Nikos Clerides, said the case centres on legal professional privilege and the protection of lawyer-client confidentiality. He argued that the search was unnecessary, as his client is a witness rather than a suspect and had already provided relevant material to police.
New evidence submitted
In a related development, former MEP Demetris Papadakis handed over three mobile phones to police as part of the investigation.
He said the devices had already undergone private forensic analysis, with the findings submitted to authorities. The police are expected to carry out further examinations as part of the ongoing probe.