The investigation into the “Sandy” case has entered a critical phase, with a specialised team from the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) expected to arrive in Cyprus in the coming days to assist with inquiries. FBI agents specialising in forensic analysis of testimony and behavioural patterns will examine witness statements gathered so far.
Specialised units expected to deploy
The team is likely to come from the FBI’s Behavioural Analysis Units, which include forensic analysts, psychologists and criminologists experienced in handling complex cases and assessing witness material.
They are expected to apply methodologies used by the agency’s forensic psychologists to analyse credibility, psychological state and behavioural patterns. The experts will review all testimonies collected to date and advise police investigators on next steps, including whether further investigative actions are required.
Police stress cooperation does not signal lack of trust
Police have stressed that the involvement of international agencies does not indicate a lack of confidence in local authorities. Officials say such cooperation provides access to highly specialised expertise and technologies not available to all national forces.
Cooperation with Europol is continuing in parallel, with forensic analysis of electronic evidence under way at specialised laboratories. No clear timeline has been set for completion, as the process depends on the volume and nature of the material.
Independent investigators
The decision to invite the FBI has prompted political reactions, with Makarios Drousiotis arguing that independent criminal investigators should have been appointed in Cyprus.
Police sources, however, say appointing a criminal investigator would not materially change the nature of the probe. The investigation, evidence gathering and evaluation of testimony remain the responsibility of the police as the competent authority.
Parallel legal developments
At the same time, investigators continue to collect and assess new testimony, while legal developments linked to the case are also under way.
Among them is a request to annul a search warrant issued for the home and office of lawyer Nikos Clerides, focusing on issues of legal professional privilege.
Separately, former MEP Dimitris Papadakis has handed three mobile phones to police, which are expected to undergo further forensic examination.
With the investigation at an advanced stage, police view the results of Europol’s forensic analysis and the FBI’s assessment of testimonies as key to concluding the case.