1 missing persons Archives - New Cyprus Magazine

Urgent Appeal for the Release of Classified Documents on Cyprus’ Missing Persons

Former President of the House, Yiannakis Omirou, has urgently urged the Cypriot government to secure the release of classified National Guard documents from Greece, which may reveal the fates of individuals missing since the 1974 conflict in Cyprus. His call for transparency aims to provide justice and healing for the families affected by this tragic chapter in history, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the past for future reconciliation.

‘The cruellest thing’: the relatives of the Missing and wasted suffering

By Demis Papadopoulos

The relatives of the Missing in Cyprus grapple with deep emotional pain, as generations have lived in a state of false hope since the 1974 Turkish invasion, often manipulated by their own leaders who suggested that their loved ones might still be alive. Meanwhile, the Turkish Cypriot leadership, under Rauf Denktash, offered a stark contrast, providing brutally honest admissions that allowed families to mourn, highlighting the profound betrayal felt by those searching for truth and closure.

Progress in Identifying Missing Persons: A Significant Step Forward

By Demis Papadopoulos

The Committee on Missing Persons (CMP) in Cyprus has made remarkable strides in its mission, successfully identifying 1,051 of the 2,002 individuals reported missing during the island’s unrest, including 756 Greek Cypriots and 295 Turkish Cypriots. Utilizing advanced technologies like Xray and DNA detection, the CMP brings renewed hope to families longing for answers, while the search continues for the remaining 951 individuals.

Seven Members of Missing Identified This Year

By Demis Papadopoulos

In 2024, the Committee for Missing Persons (CMP) identified seven missing individuals, including five Greek Cypriots and two Turkish Cypriots, from 49 excavations on the island of Cyprus, bringing closure to their families. This ongoing mission aims to resolve cases of missing persons, with meticulous analysis of skeletal remains guiding the path towards truth and reconciliation for those affected by the conflict.

Search Underway for Missing Serbian Tourist in Ayia Napa

By Demis Papadopoulos

Alexandar Gligorijevic, a 27yearold Serbian tourist, has been missing in Ayia Napa since July 27. He was last seen at his hostel on July 26, and authorities are urging the public to report any information to help find him. Contact Famagusta police at 23 803040 or call the general helpline at 1460 with any leads.

Unveiling Support for the Children of the Disappeared

By Demis Papadopoulos

The Cypriot government is offering financial and psychological support to the children of the disappeared from 1974, recognizing their unique struggles and aiming to provide tailored aid for healing and closure. President Nikos Christodoulides met with representatives of the children, including Anna Aristotelous, marking a significant step towards acknowledgment and assistance for those affected by this longstanding tragedy.

Police Searching for Missing Limassol Teen

By Demis Papadopoulos

Layan Haj Taha, a 17yearold Syrian teen, has been missing from Limassol since July 1, 2024. Standing at 1.60 meters with shoulderlength black hair, authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information by contacting Limassol CID at 25805057 or the citizen’s hotline at 1460. Vigilance from all community members is essential in the search for Layan.

missing persons high-level government meeting

Engaging Dialogue on Missing Persons at High-Level Government Meeting

By Demis Papadopoulos

In a highlevel government meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides and SecretaryGeneral Marija Pejcinovic Buric, the focus was on missing persons in Cyprus and the country’s application against Turkey. The urgent need for accountability and resolution for affected families was highlighted, underscoring the pressing humanitarian issue at hand.

Enhancing the Search for Cyprus’ Lost Souls: New Resources Allocated to Missing Persons Initiative

By Demis Papadopoulos

Cyprus has allocated €300,000 to the Committee on Missing Persons (CMP) to find individuals who disappeared during conflicts, hiring eight new archaeologists and purchasing an excavator. This move intensifies the search for the 492 Turkish Cypriots and 1,510 Greek Cypriots missing since 19631964 and 1974, providing closure to their families.

Cyprus and Armenia Collaboration on Missing Persons

By Demis Papadopoulos

Cyprus and Armenia are joining forces to address the issue of missing persons, a shared challenge stemming from historical conflicts. This humanitarian alliance aims to locate and identify the lost, provide closure to affected families, and honor the memories of those who have vanished. Through collaboration, they are symbolizing hope and demonstrating the power of unity in addressing humanitarian concerns.