New probe into Thanasis Nicolaou’s death reveals bullying and alleged military cover-up

·

Fresh findings from the ongoing criminal investigation into the 2005 death of National Guardsman Thanasis Nicolaou have uncovered a troubling pattern of bullying, drug use, and alleged cover-up by senior military officials, according to a report submitted to the Law Office of the Republic of Cyprus.

Nicolaou, a 26-year-old architect who returned from Australia to complete his national service, was found dead under the Alassa bridge in Limassol in September 2005.

Initially ruled a suicide, a 2020 exhumation and forensic reanalysis confirmed he had been strangled, shifting the case into a criminal investigation.

Led by investigators Pappas and Athanasiou, the latest inquiry includes testimony from fellow soldiers describing sustained bullying, hazing, and isolation of Nicolaou.

He was reportedly forced into humiliating acts, refused to participate in illegal activities, and was ostracised for his stance.

Several witnesses described unchecked cannabis use within the barracks, with soldiers openly smoking near dormitories and officers turning a blind eye. The unit was marked by a lack of discipline, with soldiers regularly leaving the camp undetected.

Crucially, multiple testimonies suggest Nicolaou may have been ambushed outside the camp, with a planned act of intimidation escalating into fatal violence. Witnesses believe his body was deliberately placed under the bridge to simulate suicide.

Nicolaou had reportedly confided in two individuals about tensions with specific soldiers. According to the investigation, senior officers knew of the abuse he faced but failed to act.

“The entire hierarchy of the brigade knew what was happening… Rather than taking action, they downplayed or even potentially covered up the incidents,” the report stated.

On the day of his disappearance, Nicolaou’s mother warned his unit about ongoing bullying and urged them to contact police. The commanding officer declined, claiming her son would return, a decision investigators say may have altered the case’s outcome.

The report also criticises the original military inquiry, citing a conflict of interest by the officer in charge, who also served as duty supervisor the night Nicolaou disappeared.

The investigation, later deemed superficial by the European Court of Human Rights, had concluded suicide without thorough examination.

For the first time, responsibility has been formally attributed to two senior army officers. The case now awaits further legal review by the Law Office to determine next steps.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

‘Una Faccia, Una Razza’: The politics of memory and the power of saying ‘OXI’

The annual homage to “OHI” Day stems from Greece's Prime Minister Metaxas firmly stating “OHI” (NO) to Mussolini's request.

The Master Miller and the art of olive oil perfection

The Master Miller’s mission has its roots in a philosophy that begins at the olive tree and reaches the heart of those who seek quality.

Brain regain: For the first time in 14 years, more people return to Greece than leave

For the first time in over a decade, Greece is witnessing a positive migration balance as more Greeks return home than emigrate.

When everyday Greeks said OXI: Resistance and survival during World War Two

“Aera!” (Air!) roared Greek soldiers as they clawed over jagged rocks on the brutal Pindus Mountains during Italy’s 1940 invasion.

Botanical Park of Crete: Rooted in fire, inspiring hope

The October 2003 fire started with electrical cables in a village near the Marinakis family’s olive groves.

You May Also Like

Patricia Karvelas to host Q+A program after Stan Grant steps away

Patricia Karvelas is about to replace Stan Grant as a host of Q+A, while he is stepping away following a storm of racist abuse.  

Gundari Resort on Folegandros island appoints Australian representatives

Gundari Resort on the Greek island of Folegandros, has appointed Slojourn Studio as its sales and marketing representatives in Australia.

Angela Mourtzios and Faith Neretlis aim high in the male-dominated sport of baseball

Two young Greek Australians have spoken to The Greek Herald about their love for baseball and representing the Greek community in the sport.