German estate agent denies misappropriation of Greek Cypriot properties

In the ongoing saga surrounding the controversial sale of Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied territories, a German real estate agent has denied all charges against her. The agent faces 44 allegations related to advertising, promoting, and selling properties in the occupied areas of Ayios Ambrosios and Kyrenia, as well as misappropriating over 169,000 euros through fraudulent activities. Additionally, she is accused of purchasing an apartment for herself in one of these areas without the consent of the legal owner.

The Nicosia High Court heard the case today, where the prosecution presented its arguments while the defendant's legal team raised pre-trial objections. However, the court dismissed all objections and set a new trial date for December 18, 2024. The judges decided that the accused should remain in custody until then, citing concerns over the risk of her fleeing and noting that no new evidence had emerged to alter her personal circumstances. The court also found that extending her detention would not hinder the administration of justice, despite the defense's attempts to increase the proposed bail amount from 100,000 to 300,000 euros.

The defense attorney, Sotiris Argyrou, argued that the accused had the financial means to post a personal guarantee of 50,000 euros and could report to local police in Germany. He also emphasized the need for a fair trial, highlighting a potential breach of confidentiality concerning the leak of his client's name and testimony to the press. Furthermore, Argyrou raised concerns for her safety in prison, claiming she was being threatened, and requested the state to provide a German-speaking translator for effective communication during their meetings.

President of the High Court, Nicolas Georgiades, acknowledged the defense’s concerns but reiterated that the prison administration is responsible for the safety of all inmates. He urged the defense to follow the appropriate legal channels regarding translation and media leaks.

The unanimous decision by the three-judge panel to keep the accused in custody until the trial date underscores the serious nature of the allegations and the complexities surrounding property rights in the occupied areas of Cyprus. As this case unfolds, it highlights the broader issues of ownership, justice, and the rights of displaced Greek Cypriots still grappling with the consequences of the division of the island.