New details regarding the horrific deaths of the two children who died inside their father’s vehicle in Xylofagou were revealed in court today.

At 12:10 p.m., a closed-circuit surveillance camera shows the children playing in the yard and, at one point, trying to get into the car. About two hours later, the same camera recorded them moving around inside the vehicle.

The British Bases Prosecutor’s Office requested that the 30-year-old be held in custody until trial, citing a risk of flight due to the seriousness of the offenses.

“There is testimony that the father had finished work, stopped to buy alcohol, and did not return home directly. If he had gone home, this tragedy could have been prevented.” ^{British Bases Prosecutor’s Office}

“It is not true that he consumed alcohol. My client denies the charges. The children were under the supervision of his brother.” ^{The father’s attorney}

The defense countered by stating that the 30-year-old has a clean criminal record and strong ties to the Republic of Cyprus, where he has been living and working for the past 16 months. And that he is experiencing an unimaginable tragedy.

“It is taken into account that he tried to rebuild his life; however, in my opinion, his strong ties to his family have, unfortunately, been lost.” ^{Judge of the BB Court}

Based on the findings of the investigation, BB investigators decided to bring the father before the court, since he is the children’s guardian. The 30-year-old is charged with causing the deaths of both children through reckless and irresponsible conduct.

Given the seriousness of the charges, the British Bases are summoning a senior judge from England to preside over the case.

Present in court were the father’s partner, who had been released yesterday; the mother’s brother, who had come from Bulgaria; and relatives of the 30-year-old.

“His psychological state is very poor. Unfortunately, because of this decision, he will not be able to travel to his country of origin, Bulgaria, for the funeral of his minor children.” ^{Andriana Klaidi, Attorney}

The father’s partner spoke to a Bulgarian television station a few hours after she was released.

“No one is to blame. We were detained until the investigation was completed. I pray to God that you never have to face something like this. Stop singling people out.”

The next hearing is scheduled for July 16. The 30-year-old remains in custody.

Watch Katerina Ioannou’s report