Cyprus government investigation into the Santi case messages

On April 8, 2026, Cypriot Minister of Justice Costas Fytiris announced that digital evidence related to the 'Santi' case, specifically controversial messages, will be sent to Europol for forensic analysis. This follows ongoing police investigations sparked by allegations from Makarios Drousiotis regarding potential cover-ups and the authenticity of the evidence. The Council of Ministers is currently overseeing the process and will determine whether to appoint an independent criminal investigator once the Europol results are returned. Deputy Government Spokesman Yiannis Antoniou previously stated that the government is prepared to explore all options, including hiring international experts, to ensure a transparent and objective investigation. While the government maintains its commitment to full clarification, other political figures have criticized the handling of the case, with various parties calling for a swift resolution. No conclusive findings have been established from the mobile devices examined to date. The administration emphasized that if any culpability is proven, those involved will face legal consequences.