Criminal Complaint to the Police or Prosecutor in Cyprus

Where and how to file a criminal complaint

A criminal complaint is normally filed at the nearest police station of the Cyprus Police, either in person, in writing, or in some cases by telephone report followed by a written statement. The police officer receiving the complaint records the facts, takes a statement from the complainant and opens an investigation file.

In matters involving the welfare or maintenance of a child, the law expressly allows a complaint to be brought before the competent District Court by, among others, a police officer, on the application of the Director or a welfare officer, as reflected for maintenance matters in the Ο περί Παιδίων Νόμος - ΚΕΦ.352, άρθρο. This illustrates that certain complaints may proceed directly to the court rather than only through the police.

The passages available to us do not set out a single, exhaustive procedural code for filing complaints in general criminal matters (theft, assault, fraud, and similar offences). Readers should verify the current procedural rules and any applicable time limits with the Cyprus Police or a lawyer before relying solely on this guide.

What the complaint should contain

• Full name, identity card or passport number, address and contact details of the complainant.
• A clear, chronological description of the facts: date, time, place and manner in which the offence occurred.
• Identification, if known, of the alleged offender(s) or any description that may help identify them.
• Details of any witnesses, together with their contact information if available.
• A list of any supporting evidence: documents, photographs, messages, medical reports, CCTV footage, or physical objects.
• An estimate of any loss or damage suffered, where relevant, and any claim the complainant wishes to raise.
• The signature and date, and, where the complaint is made in writing, an indication of how the complainant can be reached for further statements.

Rights of the victim during the process

A person who reports an offence and is the victim of it is generally entitled to be informed of the progress of the investigation, to give a full statement, to identify witnesses and evidence, and to be treated with respect throughout the process by the investigating authorities.

Where children are involved, the legislative framework places specific protective duties on the Director and welfare officers, including supervision, visiting and safeguarding functions, as seen for example in the provisions on complaints and applications concerning the maintenance and welfare of children under the Ο περί Παιδίων Νόμος - ΚΕΦ.352, άρθρο. These provisions show that, in child-related matters, welfare officers and the Director may act on behalf of, or alongside, the complainant.

Beyond these specific illustrations, the passages available do not contain a comprehensive statement of general victims' rights in criminal proceedings (such as rights to translation, legal aid, or compensation schemes). Readers should confirm the current position under the applicable victims' rights legislation and through the Cyprus Police victim support services.

Warning: false or malicious accusations

A criminal complaint must be made truthfully and in good faith. Making a false statement to the police, fabricating evidence, or knowingly accusing an innocent person of an offence can itself expose the complainant to criminal liability under the general criminal law of Cyprus.

The passages relied upon in this guide do not contain the specific provisions of the general Criminal Code dealing with false accusation or perjury. Readers should check the current text of the applicable criminal statute, or seek legal advice, to understand the precise offences and penalties that may apply to a false or malicious report.

Practical tips before filing

• Gather and preserve all available evidence before attending the police station, including originals where possible.
• Write a short, clear timeline of events to help you give a coherent statement.
• Keep a copy of any written complaint you submit and ask for an acknowledgment or reference number.
• If you are unsure whether particular conduct amounts to a criminal offence, or which authority has jurisdiction, consult a lawyer before submitting the complaint.
• If the matter concerns a child's safety or maintenance, consider that a complaint or application may also be brought by or through the Director or a welfare officer to the District Court.

Criminal Complaint to the Cyprus Police

To: The Officer in Charge
Police Station of [name/location of police station]
[Address of police station]

Date: [date]

CRIMINAL COMPLAINT

Complainant's details:
Full name: [full name]
Identity card / Passport No.: [ID/passport number]
Address: [address]
Telephone: [telephone number]
Email: [email address]

Details of the alleged offender (if known):
Full name: [name of alleged offender, or "unknown"]
Address/description: [address or description]

Date, time and place of the incident:
[date], [time], [place]

Description of the facts:
[Describe, in chronological order, exactly what happened, including who was present, what was said or done, and any immediate consequences.]

Witnesses (if any):
1. [name and contact details]
2. [name and contact details]

Evidence available (documents, photographs, messages, medical reports, CCTV footage, objects, etc.):
[List and briefly describe each item of evidence, and state whether it is attached or where it may be obtained.]

Loss or damage suffered (if applicable):
[Describe any financial loss, physical injury or damage to property, with approximate value if known.]

Declaration:
I declare that the above statement is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge and belief, and I am aware that knowingly making a false statement to the police may expose me to criminal liability.

Signature: ____________________
Name: [full name]
Date: [date]

For police use only:
Reference/Case number: [to be completed by police]
Receiving officer: [name and rank]

Replace all bracketed placeholders with your own details and attach copies of any supporting evidence; keep the signed original and a copy of the reference number issued by the police.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Guides

This template is based on the Cyprus legislation in the Europaius corpus. Verify the current wording before use; this does not constitute legal advice. Legal Advisor · Europaius CY