German Embassy Protests Cyprus Authorities Over Woman’s Detention
Germany’s Embassy in Nicosia has protested the continued detention of Ewa Isabella Künzel, who has been held for more than two years over allegations that she promoted the sale of Greek Cypriot properties in the north.
According to a report by Cyprus Mail, citing the German newspaper Bild, the embassy lodged a “strong protest” with the authorities of the Republic of Cyprus and called for Künzel’s release. The authorities have reportedly rejected the request so far.
Arrested After Conversation on Plane
Künzel was arrested in 2024 following a conversation during a flight with ELAM Member of the European Parliament Geadis Geadi.
The prosecution claims that during the conversation, Künzel admitted to selling or facilitating the sale of properties in the north belonging to Greek Cypriots.
She has remained in custody since her arrest. At the latest hearing on Friday, the court rejected her request for release on bail, ruling that her detention for approximately 25 months was justified by the complexity of the case.
Evidence From Electronic Devices Ruled Unlawful
The methods used by the Republic of Cyprus authorities before and after Künzel’s arrest have also become a subject of legal dispute.
The court previously ruled that the seizure of Künzel’s luggage and the search of her electronic devices were unlawful. Evidence obtained through these procedures was deemed “unconstitutional” and “inadmissible.”
However, the Nicosia Criminal Court ruled that European Investigation Orders issued to obtain evidence from Germany were lawful. Four such orders were reportedly issued against Künzel in 2024, with two issued on July 18 and 26 and two others on September 13.
Investigations Into Greek Cypriot Properties in North Intensify
The case comes as the authorities of the Republic of Cyprus have intensified investigations in recent years into the promotion of sales and construction on properties in the north that are claimed to belong to Greek Cypriots.
One of the most prominent cases has been that of Israeli property developer Simon Aykut. He was sentenced to five years in prison in October 2025 after pleading guilty to 40 charges related to the development and sale of properties in the north claimed to belong to Greek Cypriots.
Aykut was transferred to Israel in April to serve the remainder of his sentence.
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