abuse charges — A father, aged 46, along with his two adult children, aged 23 and 21, have been detained following a ruling by the Court of Appeal regarding serious abuse charges. The family faces a staggering total of 122 allegations related to violence and abuse against their minor children, prompting significant concern from law enforcement and the community.
Photo: en.philenews.com
The Court of Appeal intervened after a lower court had released the defendants on conditional bail. The appellate court cited a real risk of flight due to the severity of the charges, which include serious offences such as systematic physical and psychological abuse, child mistreatment, and indecent assault. This decision was made in light of indications that the defendants had attempted to influence a minor complainant, raising alarms about potential witness interference.
Photo: en.philenews.com
The three family members are now remanded in custody until their trial begins on July 16, 2026, at the Permanent Assize Court of Famagusta. Although they have lived in Cyprus for two decades as recognised refugees and have no prior criminal record, these factors did not mitigate the serious risks associated with their release.
As authorities continue their investigation, they are also seeking information regarding three minors from the family who remain missing. Sarra Esaifan, 17, has been unaccounted for since June 30, 2026. Described as 1.62 metres tall with black hair, Sarra was last seen wearing knee-length blue shorts, a grey vest, a black jacket, and black and white trainers. Her disappearance has raised significant concerns for her safety and wellbeing.
In addition to Sarra, police are searching for Kawtar Esaifan, 14, who is approximately 1.60 metres tall and was also last seen on June 30, 2026, wearing similar attire. The urgency of locating these minors is compounded by the serious nature of the charges against their family, which suggest a history of abuse and neglect.
Another minor, Ahlam Esaifan, 15, has been missing from her home in Famagusta since the same date. Ahlam is described as approximately 1.60 metres tall, dark-skinned, with brown eyes and long, curly brown hair. Police are appealing to the public for any information that might assist in locating her.
In a separate case, police are also looking for Alina Vaduva, a 15½-year-old girl from Romania, who has been missing since 1am on July 1, 2026. Alina was last seen in Egkomi, Nicosia district, wearing leopard-print pyjama loungewear and a black tank top. Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact them immediately.
The allegations against the Esaifan family paint a disturbing picture of life for the minors involved. According to the indictment, the children are believed to have endured years of violence, food deprivation, and confinement, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and support.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of the missing children and holding accountable those responsible for the alleged abuse. The community is rallying together, hoping for their safe return and the resolution of this troubling case.
