As already reported in advance at MFRadio.de, the investigations against the suspended mayor of Phedonas Phedonos  have reached a new phase. The complete investigation file on the rape allegations was handed over to the legal service of the Republic of Cyprus on Thursday. This means that the decision on possible criminal action is now with the public prosecutor's office.

According to Cypriot media, the file contains recommendations from the investigating officer as well as witness statements, including those of the alleged victim and other people from his environment.

Phedonos was questioned by the police last week. He reportedly submitted a three-page written statement and did not answer any further questions.

As part of the investigation, around 20 people are said to have made statements. In addition to the alleged sexual offense, the authorities are also investigating allegations related to domestic violence.

The allegations concern alleged events that took place about ten years ago. They were made public again by the real estate developer Theodoros Aristodemou, who works in Paphos, who handed over a detailed statement to the police. Aristodemou explained that he had publicly made corresponding accusations years ago.

At the same time, a woman, who is listed by the authorities as an alleged victim, made a statement lasting several hours. Their identities will not be published for reasons of victim protection. The police are currently examining the credibility of the statements as well as possible supplementary evidence and witness statements.

case received further attention through statements by social media personality Ioanna Photiou (known as Annie Alexui). She claimed to have documents that prove that Phedonos' wife Louiza Andreou was hospitalized in 2017 after physical violence.

Andreou firmly rejected these accusations and spoke of a coordinated attack on her family. She publicly emphasized that she has been living harmoniously with her husband for two decades and does not feel threatened or victimized.

Justice Minister Costas Fitiris signaled that the authorities were ready to take a statement from Photiou. Since she is currently in self-imposed exile in Russia, it is being examined whether her testimony can be given by a local Cypriot team or through a lawyer.

The case is made even more explosive by long-standing conflicts between Aristodemou and the municipality of Paphos. In 2014, the developer was charged with alleged irregularities in the development of the property, along with other people. However, the defendants were acquitted; an appeal confirmed the acquittal in 2019.

Due to the seriousness of the allegations, Phedonos was suspended from his official duties in accordance with Cypriot law. This measure automatically takes effect if an incumbent mayor is under investigation for crimes that, if convicted, could lead to several years in prison.

Phedonos rejects all accusations and speaks of politically motivated attacks. A formal indictment has not yet been filed, and no arrest warrant has been issued.

The investigations are ongoing. Whether an indictment will be brought now depends on the evaluation of the evidence by the legal service.

 Whether the accusations are a private feud remains to be seen.








Author: MFRadio.de Editors
Source: Evaluation of reputable Cypriot media reports