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The scandal surrounding a 37-year-old businesswoman and socialite at the center of a suspected organized crime ring in Cyprus took a darker turn this week, with her parents and brother once again brought before the Nicosia District Court.
The case, already shaking public confidence in the justice system, has now widened to include allegations of deep-rooted corruption, secret cash stashes, and alleged collaboration with prison guards.
At the heart of the affair is a convicted felon currently behind bars at the Central Prisons, believed by authorities to be the mastermind of an underground ring involved in illegal gambling, protection services, and possibly drug trafficking. According to police, he operated remotely, giving orders via encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp to a small but powerful circle on the outside.
Among them, investigators say, was the high-profile businesswoman who reportedly acted as a key handler of the group’s money. Authorities now say she helped manage and distribute proceeds believed to exceed €1 million in just six months. The funds allegedly helped cover both personal expenses and costs related to the institute she runs while also being funneled back to the imprisoned ringleader.
Hidden cash and safe deposit boxes
New details revealed in court point to €300,000 found in one of the woman’s safe deposit boxes, in addition to another €237,100 discovered earlier. Investigators also located more cash hidden in the homes and jewelry store of her family members, as well as in the residence of a 40-year-old man suspected to be the group’s money collector.
All suspects, six in total, including the woman, her parents, brother, and two alleged associates, are currently in police custody. The 37-year-old, who has chosen to remain silent throughout the investigation, faces charges including conspiracy to commit a felony, corruption, and possession of property obtained from criminal activities.
Prison guards under scrutiny
One of the most explosive allegations concerns the involvement of three prison guards who allegedly received money from the businesswoman, reportedly at the instruction of the inmate himself, in exchange for preferential treatment. Police have seized their phones and are examining digital evidence to determine the extent of their involvement.
Authorities suggest that instructions on how to manage and move money were passed through encrypted chats and that the ring operated like a tight-knit business, with weekly payouts reportedly reaching €50,000.
Family ties and cover stories
According to statements presented in court, the woman’s parents claimed they were told the money came from betting shops and gas stations. The father admitted to knowing about his daughter’s relationship with the inmate, while the mother denied knowing about his illegal dealings but acknowledged the supposed business background.
Interestingly, the inmate has denied owning any betting agencies or fuel businesses, raising questions about the family’s version of events.
A breakthrough against organized crime?
Law enforcement officials have hailed the investigation as a significant breakthrough against organized crime in Cyprus. While still in the early stages, the case has already revealed a web of corruption that stretches from prison cells to luxury homes and possibly even into the civil service.
Further court proceedings are expected in the coming days as detention orders for the suspects are reviewed. Police sources say the investigation is far from over, with more arrests possible and leads still being pursued in connection to gambling rackets, illegal protection schemes, and money laundering.
As one investigator put it outside court, "This is just the tip of the iceberg."
*With information from 24News
