Newsroom
A prison guard accused of trading inside information for beauty treatments, large sums of unexplained cash, and even a painting suspected to be bought with dirty money were at the center of a high-profile money-laundering case that returned to court on Thursday.
Seven people are on trial before the Nicosia Criminal Court, including a convicted felon, a 37-year-old businesswoman and socialite, members of her family, a 40-year-old man and a prison guard. The case has drawn public attention not just because of the alleged sums involved, but also because of the unusual mix of defendants.
Thursday’s hearing focused on the defendants’ response to the charges, a step that had been repeatedly postponed while legal challenges were pending before the Supreme Court. Those challenges question the legality of search warrants and the collection of telecommunications data used by investigators.
Prosecutor Vasilis Bissas told the court that the certiorari applications will be heard on January 16, warning that the outcome could further delay the trial, as four related legal issues are being examined together.
Despite this, defense lawyers said their clients are ready to respond to the charges.
At the heart of the case are allegations of conspiracy and money laundering involving significant amounts of cash, including €240,000, €149,610, €56,000, €33,000 and €22,357, as well as an alleged financial benefit of €53,870. Prosecutors argue the defendants knew the money came from illegal activity. The indictment also includes the possession of a painting, which authorities claim is linked to criminal proceeds.
Separate and particularly striking charges involve the prison guard. According to the prosecution, she allegedly received beauty services from the 37-year-old socialite-businesswoman in exchange for information about the convicted felon, as well as for passing on confidential official information. The guard has pleaded not guilty.
Prosecutors asked that the convicted felon remain in custody, a request the court approved. The presiding judge said the length of detention is not excessive and remains proportionate to the seriousness of the case.
The trial will resume on March 4, 2026, at 9 a.m., with the remaining defendants required to appear under the same restrictive conditions.
