The Independent Anti-Corruption Authority announced that its final report and conclusions on the investigation into the book “Mafia State” will be made public around mid-autumn, once Inspectors’ reports for all the chapters in the book have been received.

At the same time, the Authority warned that any information published on social media about the contents of the reports is inaccurate and misleading.

In its latest statement, the Authority shared twelve key points about the ongoing investigation.

First, it referred to its earlier announcement of February 20, 2024, regarding the decision to launch an ex officio investigation into the book, along with the appointment of Inspectors.

Second, it noted that after repeated meetings with the book’s author, Makarios Drousiotis, and given the Authority’s limited powers — as it is investigative but not prosecutorial — efforts were made to narrow down the scope of the investigation. This was necessary because the book contains numerous corruption allegations that the Authority would face objective difficulties investigating fully due to a lack of jurisdiction.

Third, with these limitations in mind, the Authority reported that consensus was reached and terms of reference were issued to the Inspectors covering most of the book’s claims.

Fourth, it emphasized that this was by far the largest investigation ever undertaken by the Authority. In total, 214 sessions or hearings were held to collect testimony or evidence, with 129 individuals summoned from both Cyprus and abroad, and over 550 pieces of evidence were submitted, corresponding to tens of thousands of pages, all of which have been digitized.

Fifth, the Authority stated that the Inspectors are currently drafting their Final Report and Conclusions.

Sixth, due to the enormous volume of testimonial material, it has been agreed between the Authority and the Inspectors that the report will be delivered to the Authority in parts. Specifically, the evidence and findings will be recorded in a way that reflects each chapter of the book that was investigated.

Seventh, this approach will allow the Authority sufficient time to review and assess the contents of each part of the report.

Eighth, the Authority noted that it has already received the report on one chapter.

Ninth, it announced that after all the chapter reports have been delivered and reviewed — which is expected by mid-autumn — a detailed statement with the Authority’s final decision and findings will be published.

Tenth, the Authority reminded the public that under current legislation, its investigations are conducted under conditions of strict confidentiality, and only the Transparency Commissioner has the authority to approve the disclosure of any information.

As an eleventh point, the Authority stressed that any information posted on social media regarding the contents of the reports is inaccurate and misleading, as no information about the testimony or the reports will be published until the next official statement is issued.

Finally, it clarified that apart from this announcement, no member of the Authority will make any further comments on the matter.