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Tag: arson

  • Arson attack — Targeted Arson Attack on Limassol Wine Shop Linked to Stavros Demosthenous

    Arson attack — Targeted Arson Attack on Limassol Wine Shop Linked to Stavros Demosthenous

    arson attack — A targeted arson attack on a wine shop in Germasogeia has raised alarms, particularly as this incident is connected to a foreign businessman closely associated with the late Stavros Demosthenous. The attack occurred around 03:40 on Thursday, 18 December, at a location on Georgiou Avenue.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    According to police reports, an unidentified individual approached the shop’s entrance and used a flammable liquid to set it ablaze. Fortunately, the Fire Service responded swiftly, extinguishing the fire before it could cause extensive damage to the interior of the establishment.

    This incident follows a troubling pattern, as it marks the second criminal act against the same businessman in just three weeks. On 27 November, four luxury vehicles, valued at hundreds of thousands of euros, were destroyed in a private parking area in Mouttagiaka. The targeted nature of these attacks has led investigators to believe they may be linked to underworld pressures, possibly involving demands for protection money or disputes related to business dealings.

    The businessman is known to have had ties to Stavros Demosthenous, who was assassinated on 17 October 2025. Demosthenous, a prominent figure and former president of Karmiotissa FC, was murdered in what authorities have described as a professional hit.

    In response to the arson, the scene has been cordoned off, with forensic experts from the Limassol Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Fire Service conducting a thorough examination. Although no injuries were reported, the fire caused visible damage to the shop’s glass facade and entrance.

    Detectives are currently reviewing CCTV footage from Georgiou Avenue and neighbouring businesses to track the movements of the perpetrator. Forensic samples of the flammable liquid used in the attack are also being analysed. Later today, the owner of the wine shop is expected to provide a statement at the CID offices.

    The Law Office has been kept in the loop regarding this investigation, which is still active concerning the assassination of Demosthenous. Authorities are exploring the possibility that this wave of arson is a direct continuation of the conflicts surrounding Demosthenous’s murder, which has already led to arrests in both Greece and Cyprus.

  • Police Seek Suspect in Limassol Car Arson Case

    Police Seek Suspect in Limassol Car Arson Case

    limassol car — limassol car — The police are currently searching for a man who set a car on fire parked outside a kiosk in Limassol. This alarming incident occurred shortly after midnight, with emergency services notified around 12.45am.

    Preliminary investigations reveal that the fire was maliciously started using flammable material. At the time of the attack, the car’s owner was inside the kiosk, completely unaware of the unfolding drama outside.

    A passing motorist, equipped with a fire extinguisher, managed to extinguish the flames, but the vehicle has suffered extensive damage. The incident was captured on the kiosk’s CCTV cameras, and investigators are reviewing this footage as part of their inquiries.

    According to police sources, the motive behind this act of arson appears to stem from personal differences between the car’s owner and the suspected arsonist. However, authorities have stated that they are keeping an open mind and have not ruled out other possible motives.

  • Pyla car — Sixth Suspect Arrested in Pyla Car Yard Arson Shooting Case

    Pyla car — Sixth Suspect Arrested in Pyla Car Yard Arson Shooting Case

    pyla car — pyla car — Police have arrested a 29-year-old resident of a Larnaca district village in connection with the conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, and arson of four vehicles at a car yard in Pyla on 14 August. The suspect is set to appear in court tomorrow for a remand hearing.

    • This latest arrest brings the total number of individuals detained in this case to six. Prior to this, five suspects had already been remanded to criminal court and currently remain in custody.

    This latest arrest brings the total number of individuals detained in this case to six. Prior to this, five suspects had already been remanded to criminal court and currently remain in custody.

    Among those previously arrested is a 44-year-old inmate at the Central Prison, who is alleged to have orchestrated the entire operation. Other suspects include a 17-year-old accused of firing shots at a security guard, a 23-year-old believed to have set the vehicles ablaze, another 17-year-old who allegedly drove the getaway vehicle, and a 27-year-old suspected of providing the vehicle used in the crime.

    The charges against these individuals are serious, encompassing conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, arson, illegal possession of a firearm, and illegal possession of explosive materials. The events surrounding the arson and shooting have sparked considerable concern within the community, highlighting issues of safety and security.

  • Weapons cache — Nicosia Weapons Cache Discovery Ties to Criminal Network

    Weapons cache — Nicosia Weapons Cache Discovery Ties to Criminal Network

    Police in Nicosia uncovered a weapons cache in Kokkinotrimithia, revealing connections to a criminal network allegedly coordinating activities from within Central Prison.

    • Police in Nicosia uncovered a weapons cache in Kokkinotrimithia, revealing connections to a criminal network allegedly coordinating activities from within Central Prison.
    • Alongside the firearms, police seized 2.17 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and 34 grams of cocaine, suggesting that drug trafficking is also part of the group's activities.

    The discovery is significant, as it opens serious criminal cases and supports theories about organised criminal strikes in Larnaca and other regions. Authorities are now investigating a series of criminal activities that have unfolded recently across the island, focusing on six notable incidents in Larnaca and one linked to the British Bases.

    Weapons cache: Police Strike Prevents Further Criminal Activity

    Investigators believe they have thwarted planned criminal acts by uncovering firearms and ammunition associated with the group. This cache includes four pistols, an air rifle equipped with a scope, several 9mm cartridges, and loaded magazines, all found in a remote portable warehouse.

    Link to Recent Criminal Cases Established

    Larnaca Police have marked the attempted murder and arson case from 14 August as “solved” following the arrest of six individuals, one of whom is a convict from Central Prison. The evidence suggests these arrests connect to at least three other criminal incidents.

    The first incident took place in late June, involving the arson of a vehicle owned by an individual known to authorities. A 17-year-old suspect, arrested for this act, reportedly confessed and was subsequently released under court conditions.

    Another arson case occurred on 15 August in Aradippou, targeting a 42-year-old’s car, followed by a vehicle arson targeting an elderly individual in Dasaki Achnas. The latter incident appears to have been a case of mistaken identity, with no links to organised crime.

    Seizure of Drugs Highlights Broader Criminal Network

    Alongside the firearms, police seized 2.17 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and 34 grams of cocaine, suggesting that drug trafficking is also part of the group’s activities.

    The investigation into the Pyla incident has led to the arrest of five men, with three identified as direct perpetrators. A 23-year-old is believed to have set the vehicles ablaze, while a second 17-year-old allegedly shot a security guard, and another of the same age is thought to have driven the getaway vehicle. A 27-year-old is reported to have provided the vehicle used in the crime, and a 44-year-old is identified as the Central Prison convict involved.

    Arrests Lead to Breakthrough in Investigation

    A breakthrough in the case occurred when an 18-year-old was accidentally arrested in Paphos on 22 August. He reportedly stole the green saloon vehicle used in the Pyla incident on 13 August, later confessing to selling two stolen vehicles to the 27-year-old for €500. This development has provided crucial insights into the network’s operations.

  • Prison orchestrated: Prison-Orchestrated Crime Syndicate Busted in Nicosia Raid

    Prison orchestrated: Prison-Orchestrated Crime Syndicate Busted in Nicosia Raid

    prison orchestrated — A major raid has revealed a criminal syndicate allegedly operating from prison, linked to an attempted murder and arson attack on rental cars in Pyla.

    • prison orchestrated — A major raid has revealed a criminal syndicate allegedly operating from prison, linked to an attempted murder and arson attack on rental cars in Pyla.

    Police launched an operation at a warehouse in a remote Nicosia village, where they discovered the vehicle used in the attack that transpired on 14 August. The warehouse is believed to have been a hub for the criminal network involved in various recent crimes.

    Prison orchestrated: Five Arrested in Connection with Violent Crimes

    Authorities have arrested five men as part of the investigation. Among them are a 23-year-old suspected of arson, two 17-year-olds accused of shooting at a security guard and driving the getaway vehicle, a 27-year-old who allegedly provided the vehicle for the crime, and a 44-year-old convict currently residing in Central Prison.

    The investigation has uncovered connections to several serious criminal activities in Larnaca during July and August. These include the attempted murder of a 49-year-old in Pyla, another attempted murder of a 47-year-old in Dromolaxia, a shooting incident involving a 25-year-old woman in Oroklini, and the arson of a car belonging to a 42-year-old in Aradippou.

    Connections to Previous Crimes Emerge

    One of the minors arrested also faces charges for vehicle arson from June, highlighting the ongoing nature of these violent incidents. At the time of his arrest, he was already under bail conditions for another matter.

    Larnaca CID chief Giorgos Charalambous noted that while the investigation is progressing, further arrests cannot be ruled out. Authorities believe they have gathered most of the evidence needed to piece together the events surrounding the Pyla attack, which appears to be driven by motives of score-settling.

    Breakthrough Arrests and Evidence Collection

    A significant breakthrough in the case came with the accidental arrest of an 18-year-old in Paphos on 22 August. The youth allegedly stole a green saloon car from Kolossi and later confessed to selling two stolen vehicles to the 27-year-old suspect, who stated they were intended for use in “some jobs” orchestrated by the imprisoned 44-year-old.

    Following this lead, police arrested the 27-year-old on 26 August in Anavargos, Paphos. Investigators believe he arranged the purchase of the stolen vehicle based on instructions from the convict, delivering it to the perpetrators just hours before the attack occurred.

    Investigators Scrutinise Evidence

    Authorities are now examining a CCTV screenshot from the 27-year-old’s mobile phone, which shows the vehicle handover location and the three suspects involved in the crime. Additionally, they are analysing seven mobile phones and reviewing clothing and other evidence seized from the homes of the arrested individuals.

    Scene reconstructions have been carried out in both Paphos and Pyla under strict security protocols, following voluntary statements taken from suspects. This meticulous investigation highlights the commitment of law enforcement to dismantle the criminal network operating from within prison walls.

  • Troodos arson: Greek Cypriot Arrested for Alleged Arson in Troodos

    troodos arson — troodos arson — Police have arrested a 32-year-old Greek Cypriot man on suspicion of deliberately setting a fire in the Troodos region on Wednesday, 4 September. This arrest follows a thorough examination of evidence and witness testimony that pointed towards the suspect’s involvement.

    • The individual was detained under judicial warrant and is scheduled to appear before Limassol District Court on Monday for a remand hearing, as confirmed by police on Sunday.
    • As investigations proceed, police remain vigilant in their efforts to uncover any additional suspects involved in these alarming incidents.

    The individual was detained under judicial warrant and is scheduled to appear before Limassol District Court on Monday for a remand hearing, as confirmed by police on Sunday.

    Troodos arson: Evidence Suggests Intentional Ignition

    During the investigation, authorities discovered solid petroleum at the scene of the fire near Platres, which is believed to have been used by the suspect to ignite the blaze. The flammable material has been collected for forensic examination, strengthening the case against the accused.

    Civilian Intervention Averted Larger Disaster

    The fire was initially extinguished by a civilian before fire vehicles from Moniatis reached the area. Firefighters, alongside personnel from the Forestry Department, later uncovered the petroleum, which immediately indicated the likelihood of arson.

    Increasing Concerns Over Arson in the Region

    The incident has raised alarms within the Fire Service and Forestry Department, which have been monitoring intelligence regarding planned arson activities in both the Limassol and Paphos districts. Officials noted that recent fires have occurred during late evening hours when human activity is minimal, often in remote locations away from roads.

    Enhanced Patrols in Response to Arrest

    In light of the arrest, authorities are ramping up patrols throughout the Troodos region to deter further arson attempts. The Fire Service continues to receive reports of planned operations targeting the area, underlining the urgency of the situation.

    As investigations proceed, police remain vigilant in their efforts to uncover any additional suspects involved in these alarming incidents.

  • Attempted murder — Second Arrest Made in Pyla Attempted Murder Case

    Attempted murder — Second Arrest Made in Pyla Attempted Murder Case

    A second man has been arrested in connection with an attempted murder case that also involved the arson of four cars in Pyla earlier this month.

    • A second man has been arrested in connection with an attempted murder case that also involved the arson of four cars in Pyla earlier this month.
    • On Tuesday, a 27-year-old man was taken into custody following a court warrant, as confirmed by local police on Wednesday. This arrest comes just weeks after the initial incident.
    • As investigations continue, both suspects remain under scrutiny, and police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.

    On Tuesday, a 27-year-old man was taken into custody following a court warrant, as confirmed by local police on Wednesday. This arrest comes just weeks after the initial incident.

    Previously, on August 21, an 18-year-old was arrested for the same offences. He appeared before the Larnaca district court the very next day, where a remand order was issued, keeping him in custody for eight days as investigations unfolded.

    Authorities in Larnaca are diligently pursuing their inquiries into this troubling case. The incidents have raised concerns within the community, prompting police to intensify their efforts to ensure public safety.

    As investigations continue, both suspects remain under scrutiny, and police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.

  • Pyla — Teenager Arrested in Pyla for Armed Attack and Arson

    Pyla — Teenager Arrested in Pyla for Armed Attack and Arson

    pyla — An 18-year-old European citizen has been arrested in connection with an armed attack and arson incident at a car rental company on Pyla coastal road. The arrest, carried out by Larnaca CID, follows a terrifying ordeal where a security guard was threatened at gunpoint.

    • As investigations unfold, residents are left reeling from the shocking nature of the attack, hoping for swift justice and increased safety measures in their neighbourhood.

    The teenager was detained this morning as a suspect for multiple serious charges, including conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, arson, and illegal possession of firearms and explosives. He is set to appear before a court at 8:30 AM today for a hearing regarding his detention.

    Pyla: Details of the Attack

    The alarming incident unfolded in the early hours of Thursday, 14 August, when a vehicle approached the premises of the car rental company. Two masked individuals exited the vehicle; one was armed with a pistol, while the other carried a container filled with flammable liquid.

    During the confrontation, the armed suspect fired a shot towards the security guard, who was inside the company’s office. Fortunately, the bullet missed its target, striking a nearby column instead. Under the threat of the gun, the assailant forced the security guard to lie on the ground. Meanwhile, his accomplice proceeded to douse four vehicles with the flammable liquid before igniting them.

    Evidence Collection and Ongoing Investigations

    Members of the Criminal Investigation Service arrived at the scene to gather evidence, collecting various items, including a cartridge case and a bullet from the discharge. They also retrieved closed-circuit television footage that captured the perpetrators’ movements during the attack.

    Authorities are continuing their investigation, focusing on identifying and apprehending the second suspect involved in this brazen attack. The police have not released further details about the ongoing manhunt.

    Legal Proceedings and Community Response

    The teenager, facing grave charges, will be presented before magistrates today to determine whether he will remain in custody as the investigation progresses. The incident has raised concerns among the local community, particularly in light of a recent surge in violent crime, including shootings and arson.

    As investigations unfold, residents are left reeling from the shocking nature of the attack, hoping for swift justice and increased safety measures in their neighbourhood.

  • Arson Suspect Remanded After Factory Blaze Linked to Employment Dispute

    Arson Suspect Remanded After Factory Blaze Linked to Employment Dispute

    A 43-year-old man suspected of arson at a factory in Ypsonas has been remanded in custody for seven days as investigators delve into charges of arson and malicious damage. The fire erupted in the early hours of Wednesday, prompting a swift response from local authorities.

    According to evidence presented by Limassol CID investigators to the District Court, the suspect had a brief history with the factory, having worked as a distributor for approximately one year before resigning in June 2025 without offering an explanation. Shortly after his resignation, he sought reinstatement, but the 75-year-old factory owner turned him down, having already found a replacement.

    This rejection reportedly left the suspect in an “agitated state.” Court testimony highlighted a confrontation between the two men at a café in Ypsonas two weeks after the suspect’s departure. Witnesses described the suspect as being in an “uncontrolled state,” where he shouted threats and threw a beer bottle at the factory owner, although bystanders intervened to prevent any injuries. Following this incident, the factory owner lodged a police report at Polemidia Station.

    In light of the suspect’s behaviour, he received official warnings from the police. A month before the fire, the factory owner noticed the oil cap had been removed from his vehicle parked near the factory. CCTV footage captured the suspect near the vehicle the day before the incident, raising suspicions of potential malicious damage.

    During written questioning, the suspect claimed he left the café between 00:30 and 01:00 on August 20 and went home, only to awaken later due to the noise of explosions and fire services responding to the blaze. He alleged he saw the factory fire from his balcony. However, investigators have gathered written testimony that contradicts his timeline. Evidence indicates he actually left at approximately 01:45, with the fire beginning just 15 minutes later.

    Following the fire, which caused damage to four neighbouring properties, police conducted searches of the suspect’s home and vehicle, seizing various items for scientific examination. Initially, no incriminating evidence was found. The suspect acknowledged the café incident, attributing his actions to alcohol consumption while asserting he was owed additional payment for services rendered to the factory owner.

    He stated that the complainant later paid him 300 euros through an intermediary. Concerning the vehicle incident, he admitted to parking on the complainant’s premises to start a vehicle and prevent battery drainage but denied any involvement in causing damage.

    As the investigation unfolds, police have collected six witness statements and carried out two searches to date. Authorities plan to re-examine the suspect and verify his claims, while also collecting additional evidence related to the fire. CCTV footage from the area is being secured, including recordings from the complainant’s security system.