Supreme Court reviews challenge against search warrant in Sandy case

On Thursday, the Supreme Court of Cyprus, presided over by Judge Elena Efraim, heard an application to annul a search warrant executed at the residence of lawyer Nikos Clerides in connection with the 'Sandy' case. The legal team representing Clerides—Christos, Alexandros, and Konstantinos Clerides—argued that the search violated legal professional privilege and that authorities failed to appoint an independent observer from the Cyprus Bar Association. The defense characterized the police action as disproportionate, noting that Nikos Clerides is considered a witness rather than a suspect. They also raised concerns regarding the seizure and copying of Clerides' mobile phone for four days, questioning the protection of private data and the confidentiality of client communications. The Supreme Court has reserved its decision on the matter. If the ruling is favorable to the applicant, a new motion will be submitted to the Legal Service to determine if they will file an objection. Separately, police continue investigations into allegations made by Makarios Drousiotis, with an FBI team expected to arrive in Cyprus soon to assist with the inquiry.