Philenews

Case of €8 Million Import Takes a Turn: 43-Year-Old Acquitted, 32-Year-Old Faces Lesser Charges

Published January 14, 2026, 13:24
Case of €8 Million Import Takes a Turn: 43-Year-Old Acquitted, 32-Year-Old Faces Lesser Charges

The case involving the import of nearly €8 million into Cyprus by a 32-year-old Ukrainian woman, through 20 separate transfers, appears to be taking a milder course. The Larnaca Permanent Criminal Court acquitted the accused of charges related to money laundering from illegal activities, as the Prosecution failed to prove a criminal origin for the funds. The police investigation began following a report by the 32-year-old woman claiming she was robbed of €420,000, but it was discovered that the total amount transferred was much larger and systematic. Furthermore, the 43-year-old Ukrainian man who received a package containing money was also acquitted of money laundering charges. The court found that the accused had declared the sources of the funds to customs authorities, and there was no convincing evidence to dispute these declarations. The investigation focused primarily on the failure of the accused to use the money for the stated purpose. However, the 32-year-old now faces charges of making false declarations to Customs, relating to the purpose for which the money was imported into Cyprus, and not its origin. These charges carry a penalty of up to five years in prison. The proceedings for these charges will continue on February 4th. This case highlights the difficulty of proving money laundering from illegal activities, especially when the accused declares the sources of the funds, even if they are not used for the stated purpose. The court's decision underscores the need for stronger evidence in order to substantiate such charges.