Martial arts instructor sentenced to three years for child sexual abuse

On April 3, 2026, the Nicosia Criminal Court sentenced a martial arts instructor to three years in prison for the sexual abuse of a child. The defendant was found guilty of eight charges related to unwanted physical contact and fondling occurring between 2019 and 2021. The court determined that the perpetrator abused a position of trust he held over his student. In addition to the prison term, the court issued a supervision order effective throughout the duration of the sentence and for two years following his release. The court also prohibited the individual from working in environments where minors are present. The Attorney General of the Republic is currently reviewing the court's decision to determine whether to file an appeal, as the sentence may be considered inadequate. This ruling highlights increasing judicial concern regarding child abuse and the betrayal of trust in professional-client relationships.