The murder verdict delivered yesterday by the third coroner’s inquest into the death of Thanasis Nicolaou marks a turning point in this high-profile case, bringing relief to the Nicolaou family after a two-decade-long struggle for justice.
Thanasis Nicolaou, a National Guardsman died in 2005 at the age of 26. His death was initially ruled a suicide, but his family long contended it was murder.
Yesterday, May 10, after years of appeals and an exhumation of his remains, a judge finally ruled that Nicolaou’s death was indeed a crime and that he died by strangulation.
Speaking to philenews, criminal investigator Savvas Matsas expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating that the investigation he conducted alongside Antonis Alexopoulos, was comprehensive, objective, and fair.
“We reached our conclusions without any influence, and our findings are included in the report we submitted to the Attorney General for further action,” he said.
When asked about the next steps, Matsas explained that yesterday’s decision solely pertains to determining the cause of Thanasis’ death. “For the first time, there is a decision confirming the presence of murderers. It is now up to the state to find a way, based on testimonies, to initially identify suspects. However, for a conviction, the evidence must prove beyond reasonable doubt that these suspects are indeed the perpetrators.”
The Nicolaou family’s next steps include pursuing private criminal prosecutions against individuals implicated in the Matsas report, who are held responsible for mishandling the case as a minor offence and suicide, resulting in a flawed investigation.
Regarding the initiation of criminal proceedings, Matsas noted that it is entirely within the discretion of the Attorney General. “The Attorney General has stated that he will not pursue criminal charges. I do not know if he will reconsider his decision, but the family is determined to proceed with private prosecutions, and the Attorney General has indicated that he will not withdraw them.”
Matsas further emphasised that the coroner’s inquest is scientifically well-founded in concluding that the death was a homicide. “There are perpetrators. If they want to be fair and objective, even at this late stage, they must assemble a capable and incorruptible team to thoroughly reinvestigate the case, seeking evidence and evaluating the information already held by the family. Perhaps someone will come forward with crucial information or evidence to justify prosecuting certain individuals. This is what they ought to do,” he concluded.
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strangulation. murder verdict, high-profile case, justice