Cyprus Court Acquits Israelis in Rape Case

A Cyprus court acquitted five Israeli men, aged 19-20, of all charges related to the alleged gang rape of a 20-year-old British woman in Ayia Napa in September 2023. The court cited significant inconsistencies and contradictions in the woman's testimony, particularly concerning the identification of the accused and the events that transpired. It was noted that while the woman was under the influence of alcohol and drugs, this was not to an extent that incapacitated her consent, as she stated she felt only 'slightly dizzy.' Witnesses in adjacent rooms contradicted her claims of shouting for help during the incident. The decision not to appeal the acquittal was accepted by the state, reflecting the court's full rejection of the complainant's account. The defendants, who had been in custody since their arrest, expressed relief following the court's decision.