CMP: Remains of 1,700 Missing Persons Recovered Since 2006

The CMP continues its efforts with eight bicommunal archaeological teams working across the island to uncover the fate of missing persons from both communities.

According to statements made by the Greek Cypriot CMP member Leonidas Pantelides during a press conference marking the start of the 40th “Marathon of Love for the Missing,” more than 1,700 excavations have been carried out since 2006. Pantelides noted that while 1,268 individuals have been identified, 1,053 were listed as missing persons, with the remainder being individuals from related casualty lists or deceased persons.

The committee currently employs over 100 Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot specialists. Pantelides stated that active excavation sites include Akçiçek (Sisklipos), Ayia Irini, Kalkanlı (Kapouti), Trahona (military area), Lapta, Paşaköy (Ashia), Makedonitissa, Metehan (Ayios Dhometios), and the area adjacent to the ELDYK military camp.

He also mentioned that the CMP’s annual operating budget is approximately €4 million, primarily funded by the European Union, with the Republic of Cyprus being the second largest contributor.

Anna Aristotelous, Director General of the Ministry of Defence, added that over 49% of missing persons cases remain unresolved. She noted that among the 44 individuals who went missing during the intercommunal conflicts of 1963–64, 17—including three Greek nationals—have been identified, while the identity of one remains unknown.

According to Politis newspaper, Aristotelous also highlighted that within the past two years, the Republic of Cyprus has advanced 15 identifications, most of which relate to Greek soldiers from the ELDYK contingent.