Police have launched a manhunt using drones, helicopters and ground units after a gunman fired more than 10 shots at a 47-year-old businessman in the Dromolaxia industrial area on Thursday morning.
The victim escaped unharmed after the attacker opened fire while he was cycling on a secondary road from Larnaca towards Dromolaxia around 11:15am. The gunman abandoned his scooter at the scene and fled on foot into nearby fields.
Police have sealed off the area and extended their search to the Larnaca-Airport motorway and livestock facilities in the region.
Professional motive investigated
Authorities are examining the victim’s business environment as a potential motive, as Filippou owns several companies. However, police sources told Philenews that investigations continue in all directions with no possibilities ruled out.
“Police have been placed on high alert due to fears of a new cycle of violence,” sources said.
Evidence recovered
Forensic teams from police headquarters recovered bullet casings from the scene and sent a pair of gloves found at the location for DNA analysis. The scooter used by the gunman has been confirmed as stolen.
Police are investigating why the attacker abandoned the vehicle, considering scenarios including mechanical failure or an accident during the escape.
Witness account
Filippou initially mistook the gunshots for hunters before realising he was the target. He told police the helmeted gunman approached from behind while he was cycling and fired what appeared to be from a Kalashnikov-type weapon.
“The victim was not injured in the attack and escaped from the scene on his bicycle,” said Georgios Charalambous, head of Larnaca CID. “The perpetrator abandoned the motorcycle at the scene and according to witness accounts appears to have fled into adjacent fields in the area.”
Ongoing investigation
The Technology Development Department is assisting with unmanned aircraft while a police helicopter conducts aerial searches. Multiple witnesses have been called for questioning at Larnaca CID offices.
“More than 10 bullet casings have been located at the scene,” Charalambous confirmed. “We cannot say with certainty about the exact number and calibre at this stage.”
Police continue examining how and where the gunman escaped and whether he remains armed. The victim has provided an initial description of the attacker, who was wearing a helmet during the incident.
The investigation remains active with no current leads on the perpetrator’s whereabouts.
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