Limassol, Cyprus. Proceedings in the trial over the killing of Limassol businessman Stavros Demosthenous were adjourned on Wednesday after defence raised objections concerning the charges and disclosure of evidence in the case.
Defence objections
The six accused appeared before the Limassol criminal court but were not called to answer the indictment after objections were filed by defence counsel representing defendants three to six. Lawyers said their clients could not properly respond to the charges without better details about the alleged role and involvement of each defendant in the offences listed in the indictment.
Disclosure of evidence
Defence representatives also referred to evidence they said had not yet been fully disclosed by the prosecution. The prosecution rejected the claims, saying the role of each defendant clearly emerges from the witness material already handed over to the defence.
Prosecution response
On the charge of premeditated murder, prosecutors said the illegal act is clear and concerns the fatal shooting of the victim. The court was also informed that all evidential material currently in the possession of the prosecution had been disclosed.
Next hearing
Judges said the case must proceed within specific time frames and instructed both sides to be ready for continuous daily hearings once the trial begins in full. The proceedings were adjourned until next Friday, when the court is expected to hear responses to the preliminary objections and decide outstanding procedural issues.
Five of the six defendants remain in custody at the central prisons.