Pathologists will conduct an autopsy at 11:30 am at Nicosia General Hospital to determine the identity and cause of death of a body found in an advanced state of decomposition near Ayia Thekla in Sotira.
The remains, discovered Monday afternoon, may belong to a woman who died four to five months ago.
Initial investigations suggest the body washed ashore, possibly linked to a migrant boat accident several months prior. Authorities are investigating connections to other bodies discovered in occupied territories since January. DNA samples will be sent to Syria and Lebanon for potential identification against those believed to be on the boat.
Police spokesperson Christos Andreou told Cyprus News Agency (CNA), “The discovery site was secured, and examinations revealed human remains, in an advanced state of decomposition. It remains unclear if the body washed ashore, but evidence strongly suggests this.”
The Marine and Naval Police are conducting sea patrols to locate additional evidence. When questioned about links to irregular migration, Andreou replied, “All possibilities are being considered. Evidence implies the body arrived by sea, however, examinations will provide confirmation.”
He added, “The body’s decomposed state complicates identification and investigation efforts.”
