Martial arts instructor sentenced to three years in prison for sexual abuse

On April 3, 2026, the Nicosia Permanent Assize Court sentenced a martial arts instructor to three years in prison for eight counts of sexual abuse involving a child. The offenses occurred between 2019 and 2021, during which the instructor abused his position of trust to touch the minor. The court proceedings were held behind closed doors to protect the identity of the victim. In addition to the prison term, the court issued an order for the defendant to be monitored by the Convicted Persons Supervision Authority during his sentence and for two years after his release. He is also prohibited from employment in environments involving children for a period of two years following his release. The case previously drew public scrutiny when it was revealed that the instructor had participated in a school sports event while the charges were pending. The Attorney General is currently evaluating the court's decision to determine whether to file an appeal regarding the length of the sentence.