Newsroom / CNA
For the first time, authorities have identified the remains of people who went missing between 1979 and 1981, which were treated with chemicals. These remains had been moved to a military cemetery in Makedonitissa but were never returned to the families of the missing individuals. At that time, 45 families were mistakenly given the wrong remains.
The identification involves a Greek national, and the family has been informed by Anna Aristotelous, who is in charge of Humanitarian Affairs for Missing and Enclaved Persons. The identification process was incredibly precise, with a 99.99% certainty, which is far beyond international standards.
Aristotelous explained that two of the eight families of Greek nationals who were missing during this period have agreed to provide samples of their family members' bones to help with identification. This breakthrough was made possible thanks to teamwork with a Genetics Institute and the use of advanced equipment.
In the last two years, the Cypriot government’s program has successfully identified 15 people, including 11 missing individuals and 4 soldiers who died at a military camp. Currently, 39 of the 77 missing Greek nationals have been found, while 38 are still unaccounted for. Out of 95 fallen Greek soldiers, 47 have been located, and 48 are still missing.
The remains will be repatriated (returned to their families) between July 18–22, and funerals will take place in either Cyprus or Greece, depending on the family’s wishes.
Ongoing work and challenges
The Committee on Missing Persons (CMP) is handling three different sets of files: one for the families, one for the Cyprus Intelligence Service, and one containing operational files. They are continuing their excavations in several places, though some military areas are delayed because special permits are needed. Right now, nine teams are working in both controlled and occupied areas, with more resources expected to be added.
Recent excavations have focused on areas like Nicosia, Petra, Kioneli, Katokopia, and Sisklipos, and they are also working on finding remains from 1974 in Turkish Cypriot areas like Agia Irini. They are also investigating wells in Larnaca, where remains from the 1963-1964 period are believed to be buried.
Diplomatic and legal efforts
In March, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) discussed Turkey's responsibilities regarding the missing persons. The 32 member states of the court emphasized the importance of humanitarian work and urged Turkey to cooperate. This was seen as an important diplomatic success by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Family associations speak out
The families of missing persons from 1963–1964 have raised concerns about the time passing and have spoken against creating a “Truth Committee” that could allow Turkey to avoid responsibility. Another group, the Committee of Relatives of Missing Persons, has also voiced frustration over the delays and has requested updates on the investigations.
Families of those missing from Assia have criticized the authorities for mishandling their case and interfering with witness testimonies. They are also asking for more funding to continue work at a landfill in Dikomo, where remains are believed to have been moved.
A new association formed by the children of missing persons has stressed the urgent need for answers. They are frustrated by the lack of timely information and the challenges they face in getting access to necessary files.
Political reactions
Members of Parliament (MPs) have strongly criticized the slow progress of the investigations and the lack of cooperation from Turkey. Nikos Kettiros, Chair of the Refugees Committee, mentioned that very few permits are given for accessing military areas, and there haven’t been enough meetings with the families in Cyprus. Other MPs, like Rita Superman, Christos Christofides, and Christos Senekis, have emphasized the need for updated testimonies and more cooperation from Turkey. They also expressed concerns that this issue, which is a humanitarian one, has become too politicized.
The work is still ongoing, with families continuing to demand answers. The government has promised to keep working toward solving the issue.
