Police conduct searches at home and office of lawyer Nikos Clerides

Cyprus police executed a search warrant at the residence, office, and vehicles of lawyer Nikos Clerides, seizing electronic devices including a mobile phone and USB drives. The operation is part of an investigation into allegations made by journalist Makarios Drousiotis regarding former Supreme Court judge Michalakis Christodoulou, specifically involving a case known as 'Sandy'. Police stated the search was legally authorized based on evaluated evidence and denied any intent to breach attorney-client privilege. Christos Clerides, the lawyer's brother and former Bar Association chairman, condemned the action as 'terrorism' and announced plans to challenge the warrants in the Supreme Court. The Cyprus Bar Association issued a statement emphasizing that attorney-client privilege is a fundamental cornerstone of the rule of law. Legal expert Achilleas Aimilianides noted significant gaps in current protections against arbitrary searches of legal professionals. The authorities maintained that their actions are necessary to uncover the truth and restore public trust.