An anonymous complaint recently submitted to the Independent Authority Against Corruption has once again brought to light a serious case of alleged negligence involving a residential apartment development in Germasogeia.
The property in question is a block of apartments on Agiou Ilarion Street in Germasogeia. One side of the building remains effectively “unsupported”, as the required retaining wall has never been built. This has left tenants and residents of nearby homes exposed to potential danger.
Apartment issues ongoing for five years
The matter was first reported five years ago, yet no substantial action has been taken since. Residents continue to live with uncertainty, while buyers of the apartments have still not received their title deeds.
A formal complaint was lodged against the local municipality, claiming that the failure to construct the retaining wall poses a serious safety risk not only to the building’s occupants but also to neighbouring properties.
No evidence of corruption, but safety concerns remain
After reviewing the complaint, the Independent Authority Against Corruption said the case involves two aspects:
- Allegations of corruption
- A matter of public safety
Regarding corruption claims, the Authority stated that, without further evidence, the case does not fall within its legal powers under the 2022 law governing its operation.
However, it stressed that it could not ignore the potential safety risk. According to the complaint, the absence of a retaining wall may endanger residents, particularly those living at a lower elevation. The Authority noted the possibility of injuries or even loss of life and has contacted the relevant municipality by letter, urging immediate action.
Mayor: Efforts ongoing despite delays
The Mayor of Amathounta, Kyriakos Xydias, confirmed that while no corruption was found, the municipality has been urged to take steps to protect residents.
“It is something we are trying to resolve in any case. We have made several attempts,” he said, acknowledging that obstacles and complications have delayed progress.
According to the mayor, a solution proposed in 2021 involved constructing a large retaining wall in cooperation with the owners of plots located below the apartment block, as technically there is no other way to carry out the works.
Although the proposal was accepted, the project stalled after the main affected landowner, who is reportedly facing health issues, refused access to his property.
Apartment buyers without title deeds
The ongoing delay has left apartment buyers trapped in limbo for decades. The development has never been fully completed, the retaining wall remains unbuilt, and title deeds have not been issued.
As the case resurfaces, pressure is mounting on local authorities to finally resolve a situation that continues to raise serious safety and property concerns in the Limassol district.
