Three witnesses have withdrawn from testifying in the murder case of Turkish Cypriot Tansu Cidan at Nicosia Central Prisons, with one claiming death threats whilst in custody, prosecutors told court Friday.
The case involves the alleged premeditated murder of Cindan, 41, on October 27, 2022, with a 31-year-old man, as the main defendant.
State prosecutor Haris Karaolidou informed the Nicosia Criminal Court that one witness retracted his statement after continued imprisonment. A second witness cited friendship with an accused prison guard as grounds for potential bias, whilst a third, a prison officer facing disciplinary action, refused to testify truthfully even under summons.
The prosecution has opted not to call these witnesses, deeming their testimony would not serve justice. Six additional witnesses are reportedly no longer in Cyprus.
Defence lawyer Katia Pieroudi challenged the prosecution’s decision not to summon the witnesses, but the court upheld the move after a 30-minute deliberation.
During subsequent proceedings, Pieroudi cross-examined three witnesses, including translator Hatice Kerlo and two prison officers, probing potential witness interference.
The court ruled there is a prima facie case to answer. The trial continues next Wednesday.
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