Police are investigating a group of approximately 80 people who claim US jurisdiction and reject Cypriot authority, following disruptive incidents at courts and threats to financial institutions.
According to police documents from December 2024, 30-40 members wearing military-style clothing disrupted proceedings at Limassol District Court in October 2023, forcing a hearing to be postponed after loudly declaring they did not recognise the Republic of Cyprus or its institutions.
The group, which emerged in 2023, has been sending threatening letters to debt management companies, the Competition Commission, and the Association of Cyprus Banks.
Members identify themselves as “entities rather than natural persons” and claim protection under US jurisdiction, using military terminology in their communications.
Police have arrested three suspects, including a 62-year-old man and a 43-year-old woman, while a 45-year-old remains wanted.
They face multiple charges including conspiracy to commit felony, which carries up to seven years imprisonment, forgery of official seals, and participation in a criminal organisation.
Documents obtained by police reveal the group threatened legal action through “military courts” and claimed “12,000 commandos would intervene” in Cyprus.
Letters often referenced international treaties and US security bodies while challenging the legitimacy of debt collection activities.
The Association of Cyprus Banks reported the communications to police, citing potential risks to staff and members. Similar threats were sent to companies handling electronic auctions between 2023 and 2024.
While the claims have been dismissed as unfounded, they caused concern among financial institutions and organisations, prompting some recipients to alert police as a precautionary measure.
The suspects face additional charges including impersonating public officials, making threats, and document forgery, with potential sentences ranging from one to ten years imprisonment and fines up to €50,000.
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