Pre-trial hearing in the private prosecution of Thanasis Nicolaou

On March 13, the Limassol District Court continued proceedings regarding the private criminal prosecution brought by the family of Thanasis Nicolaou. The case involves five defendants: forensic pathologist Panikos Stavrianos, former police chief Andreas Iatropoulos, and former officers Nikos Sofokleous, Christakis Nathanael, and Christakis Kapiliotis. During the session, lawyer Savvas Matsas, who previously withdrew as counsel to serve as a witness, was permitted by the court to explain his resignation. Matsas presented a police report detailing threats against his life, which he cited as a secondary reason for his withdrawal. Defense lawyers, led by Laris Vrachimis, disputed these claims, alleging that Matsas had requested the police report himself and accused him of lying. The court session was characterized by procedural disputes between the legal teams. Due to the unfinished arguments regarding pre-trial motions, the court adjourned the case until March 19. Christos Clerides has taken over as the representative of the prosecution for the family.