Police are investigating a group of about 80 people who claim to be part of a “4th Flag Alliance Army” in what authorities describe as a serious public security concern, following the arrest of two suspects in a fraud probe.
The investigation, which police say involves forged documents and intimidation tactics, linked to a group of individuals with non-performing loans that have been sold to debt management companies.
Police have detained a 62-year-old man and a 43-year-old woman for eight days, while authorities search for Costas Patsalides, 45, from Limassol.
The case came to light in January when a law firm reported that two men wearing “US Department” t-shirts visited their office, claiming to be “federal postal/judicial officers” representing a tenant facing eviction.
According to police testimony in court, the suspects created an “intimidating situation” for a property owner and his lawyer.
The group allegedly uses military and legal terminology, unauthorised Republic of Cyprus stamps, and fingerprints to sign documents.
The male suspect told the court he was “under the American flag” and claimed regular contact with U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump. “I am not a person, I am an entity”, he said, appearing without legal representation.
Documents examined by police show the group has sent letters to debt management companies and the Competition Protection Commission, using what appear to be forged official stamps and emblems resembling U.S. government symbols.
Police investigators said members present themselves as postal workers, military personnel, and judges within their own hierarchy. The group has also allegedly produced documents resembling military court proceedings.
The investigation will examine possible financial exploitation of citizens, with authorities planning to seek assistance from foreign jurisdictions where the group claims to have collaborators.
A video released on Wednesday showed the wanted suspect expressing dissatisfaction with the Cyprus Police’s handling of the case.
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