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Cyprus police are broadening an investigation into a controversial video that has triggered strong political fallout, after former energy minister George Lakkotrypis gave an official statement and submitted material now under forensic examination, authorities said.
Police spokesman Vyron Vyronos said Lakkotrypis appeared Friday afternoon, provided testimony and evidence, and that investigators are awaiting technical reports from cybercrime and forensic units. He said statements from other individuals appearing in the video are expected, but no summonses have been issued so far.
The investigation covers the full content of the video circulated on the social media platform X, as well as the origin of the account that posted it. Police confirmed ongoing coordination with the Legal Service, though they said there is no public indication that the scope of the inquiry or potential criminal charges has changed.
The video reportedly shows conversations involving Lakkotrypis; Charalambos Charalambous, director of the president’s office; and Giorgos Chrysochos, head of the Cyfield Group, with a man presented as a Dutch investor. The material includes references to alleged pre-election funding and contributions to a fund linked to the first lady, prompting intense political reaction.
The government has rejected the video’s claims, questioned its authenticity and described it as an attempt to manipulate public opinion and a possible hybrid threat. President Nikos Christodoulides called on anyone with evidence of direct or indirect bribery involving him, either during the election campaign or his presidency, to submit it immediately to authorities.
Deputy Government Spokesman Giannis Antoniou said Nicosia had been warned by Brussels three to four months ago about possible hybrid threats ahead of Cyprus assuming the presidency of the EU Council. He said the video appears to combine authentic footage with manipulated audio and images and bears signs of organized propaganda.
