Police started an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment involving a female footballer following an official complaint, police spokesperson Kyriaki Lambrianidou confirmed Thursday.
“Police confirm they are investigating a sexual harassment complaint against a female athlete”, Lambrianidou told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA). She declined to provide further details, citing the need to protect vulnerable individuals involved in the case.
The case emerged publicly on Tuesday after the footballer reported the incident to the Cyprus Footballers’ Association (PASP). Spyros Neofytides, PASP’s executive chairman, told the Cyprus News Agency that the association is following its protocol and will see the case through to its conclusion.
PASP had previously approached both the Cyprus Football Association (CFA) and the Cyprus Sports Organisation (CSO) through their legal counsel, seeking assistance and cooperation.
The CFA urged PASP to file a complaint with the relevant authorities, while strongly condemning any form of abuse or harassment in sports. The association stated it stands ready to provide all possible support within its jurisdiction to anyone who has experienced such behaviour.
Meanwhile, the CSO has established partnerships with relevant services and adopted a code of practice for preventing and addressing harassment and sexual harassment in public service. The organisation responded promptly to PASP’s letter, outlining possible actions and offering to inform the athlete about complaint procedures and psychological support services available through state programmes and organisations.
The CSO also indicated it would monitor the federation’s handling of the case.
The footballer had initially approached PASP several days before the public disclosure, seeking the association’s protection and support.
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