Newsroom
The latest twist in the ongoing scandal of mismanaged Turkish Cypriot properties involves claims that underworld figures are involved in illegal leasing deals.
According to a report by Pavlos Neophytou, AKEL MP Nikos Kettirou recently presented evidence to Interior Minister Konstantinos Ioannou, sparking a new investigation. The two have now asked the police to probe around 20 high-value properties tied to these allegations, with a focus on shell companies covering up the illegal dealings.
Kettirou's claims suggest that some of these properties are being leased to individuals on public assistance who, despite their status, are profiting millions through these businesses. The government is now working with multiple agencies to uncover the full extent of the scandal, but many remain doubtful that any meaningful action will come of it.
The Interior Ministry has already conducted inspections of Turkish Cypriot properties in 2023, uncovering several irregularities. Legal actions have been taken for some of the cases, and private lawyers have been brought in to manage the legal proceedings, which have been delayed due to the backlog in Cypriot courts. In the new year, the Ministry will start inspecting lease certificates for Turkish Cypriot residences.
Despite these efforts, there is growing frustration over the lack of progress. Paphos Mayor Phaidonas Phaidonos, who has also publicly addressed the issue in the past, criticized the ongoing mismanagement, accusing some officials of profiting from illegal concessions. He emphasized that while some have recently raised alarms, others have allowed the underworld to play a role in managing these properties. He believes that with the right political will, the situation could be turned around, but that remains uncertain.
In summary, while investigations are underway, there is skepticism about whether the ongoing efforts will result in meaningful change, given the deep-rooted nature of the problem and the involvement of powerful figures.
