Cyprus Parliamentary Committee investigates 1974 prisoner of war registry irregularities

The Parliamentary Refugee Committee in Cyprus is investigating allegations of political interference regarding the registration of 1974 prisoners of war. Following a complaint by Vasos Christou, President of the Prisoners' Association, committee members held a closed-door session to discuss claims that political parties attempted to influence the registry. Committee Chairman Nikos Ketthiros stated that while specific parties were mentioned, he would not name them publicly, instead urging the Association to provide evidence to the police for a formal investigation.

The investigation also follows a report from the Audit Office highlighting discrepancies in the distribution of war prisoner benefits. The report identified 130 cases where individuals are not listed in the Red Cross or National Guard registries. Additionally, eight specific cases were flagged where the status of the prisoner could not be verified, including one instance of an individual receiving prisoner benefits despite being declared a deserter after the 1974 invasion.

Audit Office representative Akis Kikas explained that there are three categories of benefits: supplementary honorary allowances, an annual lump-sum payment of €2,000, and care allowances ranging from €240 to €1,300 per month. Currently, 852 people receive care allowances. The committee has called for the reconciliation of various registries to ensure accurate records and proper distribution of benefits.