Mari indictments might come next week

FOLLOWING lengthy meetings yesterday and the day before, the Attorney-general Petros Clerides said that indictments on the Mari blast might come next week. 

The blast killed 13 people when poorly stored munitions exploded on July 11 last year after being exposed to the elements since 2009. 

Amid public outcry and promises by President Demetris Christofias that those responsible for would pay, the police handed over their report to Clerides last October. 

Since then, Clerides has refused to say who would be prosecuted or when. 

“I am not going to tell you how many people or who (will be prosecuted),” Clerides said yesterday. 

Clerides said that “absolutely no one will dictate to us… who will be prosecuted and what the courts will decide to bring this issue to conclusion”. 

Despite Clerides’ refusal to talk timeframes, speculation has been rife on the nature of charges, and the individuals who might be charged. 

Cabinet appointed independent investigator Polys Polyviou’s report touched on the area of criminal responsibility, naming a number of high-ranking officials. 

Daily newspaper Politis also published alleged excerpts of the police report naming among others National Guard officials. 

Clerides said in August that they were primarily investigating manslaughter; he is the only one with the authority to press charges. 

 

 

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