Nicosia, Cyprus. Police are ready to begin work on the Mafia State case once the appointment of independent criminal investigators is published in the government’s official gazette. The investigation follows the completion of an anti-corruption authority inquiry into allegations raised in journalist Makarios Drousiotis’ book Mafia State.
Police awaiting official publication
Police spokesman Vyron Vyronos told the Cyprus News Agency on Tuesday that the force was waiting for the appointment to be made official so the independent investigators could request assistance from police investigators and proceed with the probe.
He said testimonies would be taken by those with knowledge of domestic procedures to ensure they are admissible in court.
Police role in the investigation
“The contribution of the police is always requested in such cases. If we are asked, we will provide it the best we can,” Vyronos said.
He added that the case file is expected to be handed over by the cabinet to the independent investigators.
Background to the case
The appointment of the independent investigators follows the completion of the anti-corruption authority’s investigation into allegations contained in Mafia State.
That inquiry involved around 150 witnesses, approximately 200 hearings and hundreds of exhibits.
Government calls for patience
On Monday, the government called for patience while the independent criminal investigators complete their work in the so-called Mafia State case, saying the investigation must proceed without political interference.
