**Journalists’ Union Criticizes Judge for Conduct Towards Reporters at Dhekelia Court**
*Dhekelia, July 3, 2026* – The Union of Cyprus Journalists (UCJ) has voiced strong disapproval of the conduct exhibited by British Sovereign Base Areas judge Carl Gunsley during a recent court hearing. The incident occurred on July 2, 2026, at the Dhekelia court, where journalists were present to cover the remand hearing of a father charged in connection with the tragic deaths of his two children, aged 8 and 10, who were found deceased in a locked car in Xylophagou.
According to reports from UCJ members who attended the proceedings, Judge Gunsley’s demeanor was described as offensive, argumentative, and arrogant. The judge allegedly issued warnings to journalists regarding potential criminal repercussions for any perceived disrespect or disobedience toward the court. The UCJ characterized these remarks as unwarranted threats against the press, emphasizing that such intimidation undermines the core principles of journalism and freedom of expression.
“Journalism cannot operate under threats. Freedom of expression cannot be restricted by any judicial officer of any court,” the UCJ stated in a public release. The board also highlighted that this incident is not isolated, referencing previous occurrences of similar conduct, which they argue reflects an outdated mindset inconsistent with contemporary standards of cooperation and respect between the judiciary and the media.
The hearing itself centered on the father of the deceased children, who is facing two charges of causing death by a reckless and rash act. Following the proceedings, Judge Gunsley ordered the defendant’s detention until the trial begins on July 16, citing the seriousness of the charges and the risk of flight as justifications for denying bail. The judge noted that the defendant lacked sufficient ties to the British Bases, which further supported the decision for continued detention.
The case has garnered significant media attention due to its sensitive nature and the tragic circumstances surrounding the children’s deaths. The British Bases Court has jurisdiction over this matter, as the incident occurred within the Dhekelia Sovereign Base Area, a territory governed by British law rather than the laws of the Republic of Cyprus. Consequently, offenses committed within these areas are typically prosecuted in Sovereign Base Area courts, located in Episkopi and Dhekelia.
Defence lawyer Andreana Klaedi has indicated that a senior judge from England will preside over the trial, which underscores the case's complexity and the level of scrutiny it has attracted.
The UCJ's condemnation of Judge Gunsley’s conduct raises important questions about the relationship between judicial authorities and the media, particularly in sensitive cases that require careful reporting. The union’s call for respect and cooperation between these entities is a reminder of the vital role that a free press plays in society, especially in holding authorities accountable and ensuring transparency in legal proceedings.
As the case progresses towards trial, the UCJ and other media organizations will likely continue to monitor the situation closely, advocating for the rights of journalists to report without fear of retribution or intimidation. The outcome of the trial, along with the broader implications for press freedom within the British Sovereign Base Areas, remains to be seen.