Police confirm knowledge of “Sandy” whereabouts as Clerides raid faces legal challenge

Police affirmed that they know the whereabouts of a key witness in Makarios Drousiotis’ allegations known as “Sandy” and are continuing to examine evidence following a raid on lawyer Nikos Clerides’ office.

Speaking on Monday, police spokesperson Vyronas Vyronos said authorities are working to “fully clarify” the case, while confirming that a statement has already been obtained from the woman at the centre of the allegations.

The investigation has intensified following a police raid carried out on Saturday at Clerides’ home and office, where officers seized laptops, phones and documents under a court warrant.

The move has prompted strong criticism from the lawyer and his representatives, who described the raid as excessive and unlawful.

Vyronas refuted the suggestion that the procedures followed were anything but lawful, stating that “the police requested the court to issue a search warrant in accordance with the prescribed procedures.”

Clerides has publicly criticised the conduct of the operation, alleging that officers acted heavy handedly and in “a draconian manner” during the search.

He described the raid as a “act of terrorism” and claimed their behaviour “was worse than that of the English or Eoka.”

The case centres on allegations brought to public attention by journalist Makarios Drousiotis, who has claimed the existence of a ‘Rosicrucian cabal’ involving senior figures.

The allegations, which include claims of rape and corruption, are under investigation and have been denied by those named.

Journalist Stelios Orphanides, in an extensive intervention published via Documento, said he first came into contact with “Sandy” during her initial efforts to report alleged rape by former supreme court judge Michalakis Christodoulou and that he assisted her in travelling to Germany, where she reportedly sought shelter in a facility for victims of sexual and domestic violence.

He also stated that he later met Drousiotis and concluded they were referring to the same individual, and described his involvement as part of efforts to help her reach safety.

Authorities have confirmed that evidence, including digital material, has been sent to Europol for forensic analysis, with further information expected to be transmitted as part of the process.

Vyronas said there is “regular communication” with Europol as part of efforts to examine the material.

Clerides’ legal team has indicated it will seek to annul the warrant through proceedings before the supreme court, arguing that the search violated legal privilege and protections afforded to lawyers.

The case is likely to focus on the basis upon which the warrant was issued and whether the seizure of materials was justified.

Police have rejected claims that the investigation targeted individuals or breaches confidentiality.

In an earlier statement, authorities said the request for the warrant was based on “specific testimony which has legally come into their possession” and that “in no case is there any intention or action which would violate legal confidentiality.”

Clerides’ representatives have warned that failure to justify the seizure of material could expose authorities to legal consequences, particularly if courts determine that the warrant lacked sufficient grounds.

At the same time, police maintain that the inquiry remains at an early stage, with a large volume of evidence still under review.

The role and status of “Sandy” remains unclear at present, with conflicting accounts emerging in recent days.

Police have confirmed that protective measures have been taken but have not provided further detail, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.

Vyronas said authorities cannot prevent public commentary but stressed that their focus remains on the integrity of the process.

Separate reports indicate that material linked to the case includes digital communications and files which are central to the allegations.

The authenticity of this material is expected to be a key element of the forensic analysis being conducted with Europol’s involvement.

The developments follow a series of public statements and disclosures which have intensified scrutiny of the case and the response of institutions.

The government has said the allegations will be investigated fully, while reiterating the importance of respecting legal procedures and institutional frameworks.

Police have also addressed criticism circulating in public discourse, stating that they do not comment on social media content but will examine any information formally brought before them.

Vyronas said that “anything that is brought before them and is related to the case is investigated”, adding that further action will be taken where evidence permits.