Andriana Nikolaou has publicly released portions of forensic reports related to the death of her son, Thanasis Nikolaou, in response to what she describes as renewed demands for “explanations” by individuals both known and anonymous.
Thanasis, a 26-year-old National Guard conscript, was found dead in 2005 under a bridge in Alassa, Limassol. His death was initially ruled a suicide- a conclusion that has since been widely challenged by his family and multiple forensic experts, who point to evidence of violent assault and strangulation. After years of campaigning by his mother, the case was reopened and is still under investigation.
In a public statement, Andriana Nikolaou said she chose to publish “key conclusions” from expert reports that may not yet have been widely seen. These include findings by Dr Philippos Koutsaftis, who conducted the exhumation, as well as forensic pathologists Dr Dimitra Karayianni and Dr Peridis, and an international expert, Manolis Gavallas.
Among the findings:
- Dr Karayianni’s examination of the hyoid bone revealed trauma consistent with strangulation, inflicted while the victim was still alive, and noted internal decomposition patterns that exclude drowning.
- Dr Koutsaftis reported clear signs of asphyxia and internal injuries caused by blunt force trauma. He described a pattern of sustained physical assault alongside strangulation.
- Dr Peridis concluded that the extent and placement of Thanasis’ injuries pointed to intentional harm, with the initial investigation judged as “incomplete and inadequate.”
- Manolis Gavallas, who reviewed the evidence abroad, questioned the credibility of the original explanation- a fall from height- and stated that the internal injuries were inconsistent with such a scenario.
In her statement, Nikolaou harshly criticised those who continue to deny the violent nature of her son’s death, accusing them of misinformation and manipulation. She said photographic evidence clearly shows signs of strangulation, including distended pupils, neck trauma, and sand in the mouth, details she says contradict claims that Thanasis fell into a river.
Nikolaou said she may consider publishing the full medical reports, pending agreement from her legal team. Her ongoing campaign has become emblematic of public distrust in the justice system and long-standing concerns over institutional accountability in Cyprus.
Also read: Thanasis’ family demands justice as report reveals 7 suspects
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