Files relating to specific cases have been placed under review after a delegation from the Ministry of Interior visited the Turkish Cypriot Properties Service in Paphos last Wednesday.
According to information obtained by Politis, the delegation remained at the service throughout the day before collecting case files, which were subsequently transferred to Nicosia. The files are currently under examination at the central offices responsible for the management of Turkish Cypriot properties.
Increased complaints
The inspections by the Ministry of Interior follow a series of complaints submitted to both the Guardian of Turkish Cypriot Properties and the Interior Minister. In line with its statutory responsibilities, the service is required to carry out checks when allegations are raised.
Following the suspension of Phedonas Phedonos, complaints received by the ministry have reportedly increased. Sources indicate that the ministry is assessing credible information suggesting that irregularities may have occurred. At this stage, however, there is nothing official to announce.
More than five decades after the 1974 Turkish invasion, distortions in the management of Turkish Cypriot properties are said to date back to the early years and are not considered a new phenomenon. The ministry is seeking to rationalise management practices in response to long-standing issues.
Regarding the suspended mayor’s case, no further comment has been made.
Awaiting police and audit findings
The Ministry of Interior is also awaiting developments in the police investigation into the cases. Periodic probes into the management of Turkish Cypriot properties have taken place in Paphos and other districts over the years, amid a steady flow of complaints, though no formal findings have been announced to date.
Audit Office of the Republic of Cyprus spokesperson Yiota Michael stated that no public comment will be made before the complaints are evaluated. She said that once the Audit Office completes its assessment and, if findings emerge following a relevant audit, appropriate information will be provided.
It is noted that the suspended mayor has appeared at Police Headquarters to give a statement in relation to two alleged cases, one concerning domestic violence and another sexual abuse.
Through social media posts, he has denied the allegations, describing them as a coordinated attack and an attempt at political elimination.