"Code 56": New details of the largest Takata airbag scandal in Cyprus

In Cyprus, details continue to emerge about one of the largest road safety scandals involving defective Takata airbags. The release of the internal "Code 56" sheds light on how identified risks remained unaddressed for years, despite the danger to drivers and passengers.

According to new information, the code was used as a technical designation for a critical fault related to airbags that could rupture upon deployment, sending metal fragments flying. Such defects caused dozens of injuries and deaths worldwide. In Cyprus, the problem was particularly severe due to the large number of vehicles in which these dangerous components were not replaced for a long time.

The investigation points to gaps in oversight, delays in vehicle recalls, and insufficient information provided to owners. Authorities now emphasize that withdrawing vehicles from circulation and compensating victims is a necessary but belated measure aimed at reducing risks after years of systemic failures.