Crime11 April, 20261 min read
Israeli Spy Firm Black Cube Admits Role in Cyprus Corruption Video Scandal
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Black Cube admits role in Cyprus operation targeting state officials and private interests. Presidential aide resigned after the video.
Black Cube Admits Role
Black Cube confirmed its involvement in a covert operation targeting Cypriot officials. The admission came after an eight-minute video surfaced showing senior government figures discussing investment projects and alleged backdoor access to the president. Black Cube said it was proud to have uncovered corruption and had engaged with authorities.
The video featured Charalambous, Lakkotrypis, and Cyfield chief executive Chrysochou. Charalambous resigned four days after the video appeared. The Cypriot government framed the video as a foreign hybrid operation, with government sources suggesting Russian involvement.
Spy Games and Political Fallout
Black Cube operatives posed as representatives of a private investment fund interested in Cyprus's energy sector. Their targets included the director of the President’s Office, a former energy minister, and a construction firm CEO. The recordings are now in the hands of Cypriot investigators.
The investigative committee has been granted a two-month extension. The opposition argued the corruption allegations required a political response. The case reopened questions about Cyprus's role as a base for surveillance firms.
Black Cube's Controversial History
Black Cube was founded in 2011 by veterans of elite Israeli intelligence units. Its gray zone operations have made it internationally known. The company has been linked to surveillance operations, fake identities, and covert recordings.
Meta removed approximately 300 Facebook and Instagram accounts linked to Black Cube. The company stated it operates only in litigation and white-collar crime cases. The Cypriot case marks the first time Black Cube has publicly acknowledged involvement in a politically sensitive operation.