An anonymous complaint alleging improper management of European Union funds by a serving Cypriot official has been forwarded to the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), the Independent Authority against Corruption announced on Monday.
The Authority said the complaint had undergone a preliminary assessment before it was decided that the matter fell under EPPO’s jurisdiction, given its exclusive mandate to investigate offences affecting the EU’s financial interests and its access to the necessary records and investigative mechanisms.
Because the complaint was submitted anonymously, the Authority published an online notice to inform the individual or individuals who lodged the report of the outcome.
Authority outlines its handling of the case
In its public statement, the Authority set out the key steps:
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An anonymous complaint was submitted alleging mismanagement of EU funds by an active official.
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Under Cyprus’ 2022 law establishing the Independent Authority against Corruption, the Authority has the power to assess and investigate corruption-related allegations.
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In line with the regulations governing anonymous complaints, the Authority examined the information available and may conduct further investigative work where necessary to determine whether such complaints can be effectively pursued.
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However, under Directive (EU) 2017/1371, the competent authority for investigating potential financial mismanagement involving EU money is the European Public Prosecutor’s Office. The case has therefore been formally transmitted to EPPO.
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As a result, the Authority’s own involvement in the matter ends at this stage.
EPPO now responsible for full investigation
The referral means that EPPO will decide how to proceed, including whether to open a full criminal investigation. The Authority emphasised that its role was limited to the initial assessment and the determination of whether the complaint fell within its mandate.