The first arrests of those responsible for the collapse of Cyprus` financial system and the country`s economy are expected before the end of this year, President Anastasiades has stated on Tuesday.
The President took part today at a meeting of the Financial Crime Investigation Bureau, in Nicosia, where he was briefed in detail by the Attorney General and the Head Investigator for the course of investigations so far.
In statements after the meeting, President Anastasiades noted that he was briefed on the various offenses that seem to have been perpetrated by various banking officials.
“I have been briefed over the state of investigations so far, concerning specific crimes” the President said, adding that there will be a regular briefing every month on the progress made.
He noted that the state will show zero tolerance towards every attempt for cover-up by anyone involved in any crime.
Thorough investigation and the punishment of those responsible for the demise of Cyprus` financial system are a wider social demand as well as the state`s objective, the President added.
Moreover, he dismissed criticism over delays or cover-up attempts, noting that the amount of time required to put forward the evidence is due to Cyprus` austere legal system.
He expresses satisfaction over the course of investigations and noted that progress will become evident in the next few weeks with the results to be produced by the investigators.
The meeting was also attended by the Minister of Justice, the Police Chief and the Deputy Attorney General.