‘Eye-opener’ trip to Cyprus for MP
A BRITISH MP met with key officials on both sides of the Cyprus border this week during a whistlestop visit to seek justice for Ayia Napa murder victim George Low.
Dartford deputy Gareth Johnson told Cyprus Today on Wednesday his three-day trip had been “an eye-opener”, adding: “It seems to me that finding resolution to criminal justice issues in Cyprus is in everyone’s best interests.”
Dartford resident Mr Low, 22, died after a knife attack two years ago. Lefkoşa-based Turkish and Bulgarian Turkish suspects were identified but could not be tried in a North Cyprus court because the evidence was held in the South, and were deported to Turkey after serving sentences for border violations.
Mr Johnson said attack survivor Ben Barker and his family had been deeply affected while the Low family were distraught that his killers had not been brought to justice.
An inquest due to have taken place this week in the South was postponed by the judge, he said, because “there was no point . . . without a suspect in court”.
Mr Johnson said TRNC Foreign Ministry officials had told him that “if [the South] hands over the evidence, they will act, but I understand that this will not happen”.
“I was also informed that North Cyprus authorities are unable to act on European Arrest Warrants or Interpol Red Notices.”
Former solicitor Mr Johnson added: “The Greek Cypriot Attorney-General informed me that they have exhausted the legal process and have done everything possible.
“I also understand from my meeting with [British High Commissioner] Stephen Lillie that his hands are tied to a large extent.”
Mr Lillie told the BBC this week: “We continue to give this case absolute priority. It’s the most high-profile consular case we’re dealing with. We keep in close contact with the authorities, including the police to follow developments.”
Mr Johnson commented: “I am not interfering in Cyprus politics, I just want justice for my constituents.
“In my opinion, no-one needs to compromise their principles to achieve this and everyone could still maintain their positions.
“I will now go back to the UK to speak to the foreign secretary and the families and see about other options. I will not give up and intend to do everything I can.”