**Lawyer Threatens Legal Action Over Slow Investigation of Brawl Outside Larnaca Police Headquarters**
Larnaca, Cyprus – Alexandros Clerides, the lawyer representing a man who sustained serious injuries during a brawl outside the Larnaca police headquarters in January, has issued a stern ultimatum to local authorities. On Wednesday, Clerides demanded a "full and reasoned answer" regarding the status of the investigation into the incident within five days. Failing a satisfactory response, he indicated he would escalate the matter to European institutions.
The altercation occurred on January 17, when a group allegedly armed with axes, knives, and other weapons attacked Clerides' client, resulting in severe injuries, including a skull fracture and an elbow fracture. Despite the existence of video evidence and the identification of the assailants, Clerides claims that no criminal case has been formally registered against the perpetrators. Instead, he noted that charges have been filed against his client for allegations deemed "clearly less serious" related to the same incident.
Clerides has expressed frustration over the lack of communication from authorities, stating that a complaint was submitted on July 10 to President Nikos Christodoulides, the Ministry of Justice, and the head of the police, yet he has received no response. He emphasized that no specific information has been provided regarding whether the case file has been forwarded to the legal service or if further investigations are underway.
Highlighting the rights of crime victims under European Union law, Clerides argued that the authorities have failed to fulfill their obligations to inform, protect, and respect the rights of his client. He has requested an investigation into the reasons for the delay in the case, updates on its progress, and a comprehensive account of the current status of the investigation.
If his demands are not met within the specified timeframe, Clerides plans to file a complaint with the European Commission regarding the "non-effective implementation of obligations" by the Republic of Cyprus. Additionally, he intends to submit a petition to the Committee of Petitions of the European Parliament.
The incident has raised alarms among local authorities regarding organized crime and public safety, prompting discussions on the effectiveness of law enforcement in addressing such violent occurrences. Five individuals were arrested in connection with the brawl and were subsequently remanded in custody after admitting to being present at the scene.
As the situation develops, the pressure mounts on Cypriot authorities to provide clarity and action in a case that has garnered significant public attention and concern for the safety of citizens.