The long-awaited report by the Anti-Corruption Authority into allegations contained in the book “State Mafia” has been released, outlining findings, naming individuals, and referring potential criminal matters to the Attorney General and other authorities.
Report published after witness review
The detailed announcement was published after all individuals under investigation were informed, beginning with former President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades.
The investigation stems from allegations contained in the book “State Mafia” and includes extensive examination of evidence, testimonies and related documentation.
Individuals named in the report
The report lists several individuals, including Nicos Anastasiades, along with other public figures and officials such as:
Stathis Lemis, Fanos Philipou, Rikkos Erotokritou, Charis Solomonides, Panagiotis Neocleous, Andreas Chatzikyriakos, Efthymios Bouloutas, Nicos Kouyialis, Giorgos Varnavas, Eva Rossidou-Papakyriakou, and Ioannis Sotiriadi.
Findings and potential offences
According to the findings, investigators identify potential acts of corruption involving two individuals and refer additional issues to the Attorney General, including alleged unlawful crossing between the free and occupied areas of Cyprus.
Regarding former President Nicos Anastasiades, the report states that there may be elements of abuse of power or attempted abuse of power. It notes that the actions in question appear to have taken place during a period of financial crisis and without personal gain, but were deemed outside the constitutional duties of the President.
The report argues that such actions fall under the competence of the Minister of Interior rather than the President, citing constitutional provisions. It further concludes that the conduct described could constitute either completed abuse of power or attempted abuse.
Allegations involving former MP
The report also addresses former EDEK MP Giorgos Varnavas, stating that although he held no formal institutional role at the time, he allegedly used his public position to facilitate access for a private company to senior state officials.
Reference is made to a meeting with the Attorney General in June 2014, which the report says was aimed at promoting a private request. Investigators conclude that this could amount to abuse of power or attempted abuse of power.
Green Line crossing issue referred
A separate issue concerns the alleged crossing of individuals through the Green Line in August 2014 in violation of regulations. The report suggests that state officials may have facilitated the process and refers the matter to the Attorney General for further examination.
Final conclusions and next steps
The Authority stresses that while potential offences and implicated persons have been identified, only the courts can determine criminal liability, reaffirming the presumption of innocence.
The full report and evidence will be transmitted to the Attorney General for further action, along with relevant findings to the Tax Department where applicable.
The Authority also confirmed that no further public statements will be issued regarding the investigation.
Report will not be published in full
Despite public interest, the Authority stated that the full 3,000-page report will not be made public, citing legal confidentiality requirements and the need to avoid prejudicing potential future investigative or judicial proceedings.
It added that the materials constitute evidentiary content that must remain confidential as they are forwarded to the Attorney General for consideration of further steps.
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