Cyprus police have uncovered an alleged corruption ring inside the country's Forestry Department, with three officials accused of steering approximately €32 million in firefighting aircraft contracts toward companies owned by their close relatives, according to In-Cyprus.
How the Scheme Allegedly Worked
The Crime Investigation Department (CID) found evidence that the officials exploited their positions on government tender evaluation committees to favour connected firms over a period spanning 2017 to 2024. The primary suspect allegedly served as coordinator for the evaluation committees on multiple tenders, placing him in a direct position to influence contract awards.
The most significant beneficiary was a company linked to the main suspect's mother, who held shares and an officer role in the legal entity. That single firm secured three contracts worth more than €30 million. A separate company run by the brother of a second official won 18 contracts totalling €1.7 million; ownership of that business was subsequently transferred to the official's daughter and nieces.
Tender Cancellations and Conflicts of Interest
Investigators found a striking pattern in the tendering process. Of 15 tenders launched for firefighting air services during the eight-year period, nine were cancelled and six were awarded to the same specific company. The primary suspect coordinated five of those six successful evaluations — all while using a company vehicle provided by the winning bidder for his daily travel. A second suspect also regularly used a corporate car belonging to one of the contracting firms.
A witness has told investigators that the main suspect pressured a committee coordinator to favour four particular entities, including the company in which his mother held an interest, during a procurement process involving aircraft equipment. Searches of corporate offices also uncovered cheques made out in the suspect's name for five-figure sums.
How the Probe Was Triggered
The investigation began in the summer of 2024 after a formal complaint was submitted to Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou concerning a tender for two firefighting helicopters. An administrative enquiry that followed uncovered evidence of criminal conduct, prompting the Attorney General to order a full police investigation into charges including bribery, corruption, and abuse of power.
All three officials were placed on mandatory suspension for six months. They returned to their posts on 24 July 2025, though authorities have reassigned them to roles that preclude any interference with the continuing investigation. The case remains active, and no charges have been formally filed.
