Corruption investigation into forestry department flight contracts

An investigation by the police headquarters is examining potential corruption involving three officials of the Cyprus Department of Forests regarding state contracts for firefighting aerial assets. Findings indicate that these officials allegedly facilitated contracts for private companies linked to their family members. One company secured three contracts valued at over 30 million euros, with the mother of a primary suspect listed as a shareholder and official. Another entity, which was awarded 18 contracts worth approximately 2 million euros, had the brother of a suspect as its director and later transferred its shares to the official’s daughter and nieces. Data covering the period from 2017 to 2024 reveals that of 15 tenders announced for aerial firefighting services, nine were cancelled and six were awarded to specific entities. In five of these six cases, the primary suspect served as the coordinator for the evaluation committee. The case has recently resurfaced in the Supreme Court following legal challenges by suspects, as authorities prepare to bring the matter to trial.