Nicosia, Cyprus. Independent investigator Alexandra Lykourgou said the public should be informed about the possible course of a serious criminal case, as the legal service confirmed it is in the final stage of assessing an investigation into football television rights and former football association president Giorgos Koumas.
Public comments and presumption of innocence
Lykourgou, a former judge appointed by attorney-general George Savvides to lead the probe, said her public interventions were intended to prevent the case from stalling and did not undermine the presumption of innocence.
“I believe that public opinion should be informed about such serious issues and the possible developments they may have,” she said, adding that her statements were “absolutely necessary and proportionate” and did not affect anyone’s legitimate interests.
Attorney-general’s position on evaluation and public discussion
Her comments followed remarks by Savvides, who said the evaluation of the case was ongoing due to its “seriousness and complexity” and stressed that public discussion of the substance of criminal investigations should be avoided until final decisions are taken.
Investigation process and use of public resources
Lykourgou said the investigation had been completed using public resources, with assistance from four police officers from the crime suppression department.
“The public was informed because this was and is a high-profile case,” she said. “It therefore has the right to know what is going to happen and whether or not it will take the path of justice.”
Reports submitted and scope of evidence
She said she submitted an interim report to the attorney-general and deputy attorney-general Savvas Angelides in December 2024, and a final report in May 2025.
The material comprised 20 files and included her legal assessment of potential felonies. Lykourgou said she concluded there was “reliable and sufficient evidence” to justify filing an indictment and bringing specific persons before the court, with charges of committing specific misdemeanours.
Do you think the public should be updated on the possible course of high-profile criminal cases before final decisions are taken?
