Cyprus’ Minister of Defence, Vasilis Palmas, has briefed Parliament on a long-standing assault case in the national guard, following a question raised by MP Irene Charalambidou. The incident, involving an officer as perpetrator and a commando as victim, dates back to 2009 but returned to the forefront after the soldier was vindicated by the Supreme Court 16 years later.
At the time of the incident, disciplinary measures were minimal. The officer received only a reprimand, while the soldier, despite being the victim of the assault, was handed a 10-day military detention for allegedly insulting a superior.
The case resurfaced after the soldier filed a civil lawsuit against his then-company commander. In October, the courts ruled in his favour. The officer, who held the rank of Second Lieutenant in 2009 and is now a Major, was ordered to pay €3,000 in general damages.
Palmas' response
Charalambidou pressed the Minister to clarify what measures the National Guard takes to prevent such abuses of power and whether the officer in question continues to serve in the same role. She also sought confirmation on whether any further disciplinary action was taken following the court’s ruling.
In his written reply, Palmas said the following:
- On 30 September 2025, the Supreme Court issued a decision, rejecting the appeal lodged by an officer of the National Guard against the initial ruling of the Larnaca District Court. The case concerned a lawsuit filed by a National Guardsman seeking compensation for an assault committed against him. The first-instance court awarded €3,000 in general punitive damages and €47.84 in special damages.
- According to information received from the Personnel Directorate of the National Guard General Staff, the incident occurred in 2009 (3 February 2009) between a regular officer (Commander) and a National Guardsman. An inquiry was conducted, which revealed indications of guilt on the part of the officer for assaulting a subordinate, and on the part of the soldier for the offence of insulting a superior. Acting on the instructions of the Chief, the National Guard General Staff referred the case to the Military Prosecutor with a recommendation that both individuals be criminally prosecuted. However, on 29 January 2010 the case was filed and no prosecution followed.
- From a disciplinary perspective, the officer received a reprimand, while the soldier was issued a ten-day military detention. The officer concerned, who now holds the rank of Major, currently serves as a Section Head within an Executive Office, carrying out duties of an administrative nature.
- Preventing such incidents is of paramount importance to both the National Guard General Staff and the Ministry of Defence. At regular intervals, the General Staff issues directives to all military personnel aimed at preventing, deterring and addressing such incidents, in order to promote unity and a cooperative spirit in the workplace. A zero-tolerance policy is applied to all forms of bullying, and every incident is thoroughly investigated. Ensuring dignified service conditions and cultivating an environment of mutual respect within the Armed Forces remains a top priority.