Investigators from Cyprus Police Headquarters have begun taking statements following a complaint lodged by a businessman in Paphos against Mayor Phedonas Phedonos, in a case described by police sources as potentially involving a serious offence.
At the same time, police are continuing an ex officio investigation into allegations of domestic abuse involving the mayor’s wife, triggered by material circulated online last month by Ioanna Fotiou, also known as Annie Alexui. Both matters remain under assessment, with no charges announced.
Parallel investigations under way
Police have confirmed that statements are being collected and information evaluated in relation to the businessman’s complaint, as well as the separate ex officio investigation concerning alleged abuse.
Police spokespersons have stressed that all available material is being assessed and that any necessary investigative steps will be taken. No findings have been communicated publicly at this stage, and the mayor has not been charged with any offence.
Interior ministry awaits response
The Ministry of the Interior has been awaiting a formal written response from the police since 26 January, seeking clarification on the nature of the investigation and whether it falls under Article 113 of the 2022 Municipalities Law.
That provision governs whether a mayor may be placed on suspension while under investigation for specific categories of offences. Until police clarify whether the alleged offences meet the legal threshold, the ministry has said it cannot proceed further.
Officials have indicated that if police confirm the investigation falls within the scope of Article 113, the ministry will then seek guidance from the Law Office of the Republic before any decision is taken.
Request to halt ex officio inquiry
Police have confirmed receipt of a letter from the lawyer of the mayor’s wife requesting that the ex officio investigation be discontinued.
The letter is under examination, with police stating that procedural steps will be followed and that any further developments will be communicated if and when appropriate.
The mayor has previously said he welcomes the investigation, expressing confidence that it will clear his name. Both he and his wife have publicly denied allegations of abuse.
How the case entered the public domain
The ex officio investigation was initiated after Ioanna Fotiou, also known as Annie Alexui, published documents online presented as medical records allegedly linked to the case.
Fotiou is herself wanted by Cypriot authorities under multiple European arrest warrants relating to alleged offences including harassment, dissemination of false information and violations of personal data laws. She has claimed to have been granted political asylum in Russia, a claim not independently confirmed by Cypriot authorities.
Police have repeatedly stated that her legal status does not preclude the examination of material she has made public, but have also stressed that all information must be verified independently.
With information from CNA