*NICOSIA, CYPRUS —* A U.S. citizen, Charles Hayes, was apprehended at *Larnaca International Airport* this week while attempting to leave the country after allegedly failing to pay wages owed to 75 Cypriot workers under his management. Hayes had been awarded a *multi-million dollar contract* to build the *Contemporary Cyprus Hospital*, a major government-funded infrastructure project.
The arrest followed weeks of worker complaints and ministry investigations, all pointing to serious labour violations and contract breaches.
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*Workers Left Unpaid for Months*
The workers—hired through the *Ministry of Employment—say they have not been paid in over three months, despite working full-time shifts on the hospital site. According to testimonies gathered by *CyprusNewsHour, the situation has left dozens of families without income, with several workers warning of legal action if payments are not made.
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*Charles Hayes: From Government Contractor to Detainee*
Hayes, whose U.S.-based construction firm won the high-profile bid to lead the hospital project, reportedly received the majority of contract funds upfront. However, no formal payroll records have been produced for the 75 local workers, prompting concerns about fraud and labor exploitation.
Immigration officials confirmed that Hayes was stopped just before boarding a flight to New York, acting on a government order issued earlier that day.
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We were building something meant to help people. Now we’re the ones who need help,” said one worker, who requested anonymity
Hayes is currently in custody, pending investigation for *labor violations, financial misconduct, and breach of public contract.
There is credible evidence that Mr. Hayes intended to flee the country without settling his legal obligations,” said Immigration Service spokesperson Maria Antoniou.
*Government Scrutiny on Contracting Process*
The *Ministry of Employment* has launched an emergency review into how Hayes’ firm was vetted and awarded the hospital project—one of the country’s most ambitious public health infrastructure investments in recent years.
This is not just a labor issue—it’s a matter of national integrity,” said Minister Theodoros Charalambous. “We are committed to ensuring all workers are paid and that those responsible are held accountable.
Legal and Diplomatic Fallout
Legal experts suggest Hayes could face charges including *fraud, unpaid wage violations, and misuse of government funds. The case may also prompt **diplomatic coordination* with U.S. authorities, depending on how the situation evolves.
The *U.S. Embassy in Nicosia* issued a brief statement confirming awareness of the case, stating, “We are in contact with local authorities and are monitoring the situation closely.”
Public Outcry and Worker Demands
A group representing the affected workers has formally petitioned the Ministry for emergency relief payments, arguing that the government bears some responsibility due to its role in facilitating the contract.
Union leaders have called for stricter oversight of foreign contractors, particularly those involved in public works.
“If this can happen on a government hospital site, what’s next?” said Andreas Vassiliou, a labor rights advocate.
As of now, construction on the *Contemporary Cyprus Hospital* has been halted pending the outcome of investigations.
