Newsroom
Makarios Drousiotis has escalated his public intervention in the controversial “Sandy” case by releasing new messages and audio material, while strongly criticizing the handling of the investigation by Cypriot authorities.
In his latest disclosures, Drousiotis presented what he describes as key evidence, including messages allegedly exchanged between individuals connected to the case. One message attributed to Christodoulou suggests extreme violence, while another, sent by Sandy to lawyer Nikos Clerides, describes an incident involving a man named Michalis who was “out of control,” possibly under pressure or threat. The message was accompanied by a photograph showing a wound on Sandy’s hand. According to Drousiotis, Sandy later referenced this incident in conversations with journalist Stelios Orphanides, noting that the injury left lasting scars.
Central to Drousiotis’ argument is his rejection of the police narrative that Sandy fabricated hundreds of messages herself. Authorities have reportedly maintained that the messages were artificially constructed, even suggesting that Europol would confirm this assessment. However, Drousiotis disputes both the conclusion and the process. He argues that no credible forensic analysis can be conducted without access to all relevant devices and raises concerns about the independence of any such examination, citing potential conflicts of interest.
He further points to inconsistencies in the police account, particularly regarding the devices allegedly used to create the messages. While Sandy initially stated she used her own phone, later handed over to investigators, analysis reportedly showed that the relevant applications were installed much later than the period when the messages were supposedly created. She subsequently claimed she had used a different device, which has not been located. For Drousiotis, these gaps undermine the official narrative rather than support it.
Beyond technical issues, he emphasizes the substance of the material, stating that more than 130 messages and additional audio evidence were submitted to authorities. He argues that investigators failed to properly examine this content before taking aggressive actions, including a raid on the home of lawyer Nikos Clerides. In his view, the focus has shifted from investigating potential wrongdoing to constructing alternative explanations that discredit the evidence.
Journalist Stelios Orphanides has also contributed to the public debate, publishing an audio message in which Sandy appears to confirm her arrival in Germany in March 2021. This directly challenges the police position that she never traveled there. Orphanides questions whether a single individual could realistically fabricate such detailed communications involving prominent figures, including access to sensitive personal information. He suggests that Sandy may have acted under pressure and may have feared for her life and that of her child, which could explain inconsistencies in her statements.
The context includes earlier claims by Sandy that she had been subjected to long-term abuse and had attempted to report it without success. Efforts were reportedly made to help her find refuge abroad, including in Germany, where she is believed to have sought shelter in facilities for victims of violence.
Drousiotis has clarified that while he does not adopt allegations that Sandy was a victim of pedophilia, he stands by the authenticity of the messages he published, stressing that his work is strictly journalistic and not part of a criminal investigation.
The case has also drawn official responses. Police Chief Themistos Arnaoutis acknowledged the sensitivity of the matter, emphasizing that the investigation is ongoing and aimed at establishing the truth based on evidence. He emphasized the importance of transparency and public trust, stating that no individual is above the law while also cautioning against targeting anyone without proof. Government representatives, meanwhile, have dismissed certain claims surrounding the case, such as allegations of Sandy’s employment at the Presidential Palace, as unfounded.
Adding another dimension, Drousiotis revealed that Greek official Giorgos Mylonakis contacted him following the publication of his findings, suggesting a possible case of mistaken identity. Drousiotis responded by sharing message excerpts that included Mylonakis’ name and phone number, which he claims matched the number used to contact him. No further communication followed.
