Funerals for the missing

TWO missing persons and one fallen solider who were killed during the 1974 invasion were finally laid to rest yesterday after their remains were recently identified through DNA analysis.

The families of Panicos Nicolaou, Philippos Hadjikyriako and Costantinos Spaos were finally able to say goodbye to their three loved ones who lost their lives over 30 years ago.

Nicolaou and Hadjikyriako were two of the five Prisoners of War photographed surrendering to Turkish forces during the invasion and who were later executed.

Nicolaou’s service was held at Apostolos Loucas Church in Strovolos, Nicosia. Interior Minister Neoclis Sylikiotis attended on behalf of the government and the memorial speech was given by AKEL general-secretary Andros Kyprianou.

Hadjikyriako’s funeral was held at Apostolos Varnava Church in Kato Polemidia, Limassol. Communication Minister Nicos Nicolaides attended on behalf of the government and gave the memorial speech.

Meanwhile Spaos, who was killed in Kyrenia during the invasion, was buried at St George Church in Paralimni. The service was attended by the Defence Minister Costas Papacostas who also gave the memorial speech.

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