The Anti-Corruption Authority is set to investigate the infamous black van surveillance case involving Israeli businessmen Avraam Shahak Avni and Tal Dilian. This development follows reports from the Cypriot news site Reporter, which have gained traction in Greece.
According to the same report, the investigation will incorporate findings from Phileleftheros, a publication that has meticulously covered the surveillance story over six years, from 2016 to 2022. This comprehensive investigation is also the subject of a recently published book titled “Cyprus, the Hub of Surveillance” which explores various previously undisclosed aspects of the case.
The book not only delves into Avni and Dilian’s operations on the island but also highlights connections between surveillance firms and prominent political figures. The author’s findings indicate that conversations about the roles of Avni and Dilian may soon come under scrutiny as part of the inquiry.
As the Anti-Corruption Authority prepares for its investigation, it is expected to appoint legal experts to thoroughly review the evidence presented by Phileleftheros. This investigation has been anticipated since March 2026, when complaints regarding officials’ involvement with surveillance activities first surfaced during a parliamentary session.
Transparency Commissioner Haris Poyiadjis confirmed to MP Irene Charalambides that the authority is progressing with its inquiries, although he noted that the specifics of the investigation remain confidential.
Phileleftheros’ investigation, which began in 2016, has linked the black van case to the controversial Predator spyware, a topic that has made headlines in Greece after the mobile phones of journalist Thanasis Koukakis and politician Nikos Androulakis were hacked. The connections between Dilian, Avni, and Predator have raised significant concerns regarding political accountability and the integrity of surveillance practices in Cyprus.
The investigation also involves scrutiny of various officials, including an email that reached the office of former DISY leader Averof Neofytou. This correspondence, from an associate of Avni and Dilian, sought assistance for exporting surveillance software to the Netherlands. Independent criminal investigator Elias Stefanou is reviewing this email and has already gathered testimonies from relevant officials.
In 2021, the Larnaca Criminal Court imposed fines on a company owned by Dilian, amid allegations of political interference involving Deputy Attorney General Savvas Angelides. The scrutiny surrounding Angelides intensified after revelations related to his brother, who had business ties to Avni.
Further complicating matters, a complaint filed in May 2023 has implicated three surveillance companies linked to a law firm associated with Angelides. He has publicly denied any wrongdoing regarding his brother’s business dealings and the law firm’s connections to the surveillance firms.
A distinct legal battle is unfolding as eight victims of the wiretapping incident, including journalist Koukakis, have filed a €7.6 million lawsuit against those implicated in the surveillance scandal. This lawsuit targets 14 individuals and entities, including Tal Dilian, who has threatened to disclose further information ahead of his appeal.
The timeline of events surrounding this case is extensive. From the initial reports that began in 2016 to the ongoing investigations and lawsuits, the black van case has become a focal point of public concern over surveillance practices in Cyprus. As the Anti-Corruption Authority gears up for its inquiry, all eyes are on how this investigation will unfold and what implications it may have for those involved.
