Couple released and deported after 16-day detention for suspected terrorism in Cyprus

A 28-year-old Azerbaijani man and a 27-year-old Estonian woman were arrested in Cyprus on February 26 on suspicion of involvement in terrorism. Authorities initially suspected the man of being an Iranian agent recruited by the Revolutionary Guards, alleging he had photographed properties of interest to Israel in Paphos, Larnaca, and Limassol. The couple were held for 16 days while police conducted an investigation. Following the conclusion of the probe, no evidence of unlawful activity was found, and no charges were filed. On March 13, immigration authorities escorted the pair to Larnaca airport, where they were deported to Estonia. Lawyers for the couple, Michalis Kozakos and Nikos Koromias, criticized the police handling of the case, suggesting the arrest of tourists without evidence could damage Cyprus's reputation. The defense team indicated that the couple reserve the right to take legal action against the Republic of Cyprus. Conflicting reports noted that the pair had contacted emergency services on February 25 to report being followed before their own arrest the following day.