Police in Larnaca are still searching for a suspect following an attempted assassination of a 47-year-old businessman, which has placed law enforcement on high alert.
The gunman fired more than 10 shots with what police are examining as a possible Kalashnikov rifle before abandoning his scooter and fleeing on foot through fields in a sparsely populated area near Larnaca. The perpetrator remained at large as of early morning.
Police sources told Phileleftheros that no possibilities have been excluded and investigations will continue in all directions. Evidence presented to police yesterday afternoon has directed inquiries towards the victim’s professional environment.
The 47-year-old businessman, who operates several enterprises in Larnaca and beyond, has already provided a statement to Larnaca CID and is expected to give supplementary testimony during the day. His activities and relationships with specific individuals are under police scrutiny.
Incident details
The businessman contacted police around 11:30 AM after the attack occurred on a road leading from Dromolaxia Industrial Area towards the Krasa region. He reported initially hearing gunshots whilst cycling, which he thought came from hunters. Upon realising he was the target, he accelerated and saw the perpetrator, wearing a helmet, fleeing on foot.
Police immediately cordoned off the scene and deployed substantial ground forces, with helicopter and drone assistance continuing searches until afternoon. Officers discovered the abandoned scooter and a pair of gloves sent for scientific examination to isolate DNA evidence.
Shell casings were recovered from the scooter location by criminal investigation officers from Police Headquarters. The scene remains under guard with searches continuing today.
Investigation
Various scenarios are being examined regarding why the gunman abandoned the scooter, including potential mechanical failure or falling from the vehicle after the criminal act.
Larnaca CID head, Inspector Giorgos Charalambous, confirmed that large numbers of officers participated in the searches. “The victim has been called to Larnaca CID, as well as several witnesses,” he noted.
When asked whether the perpetrator escaped alone or had assistance, Charalambous responded this formed part of ongoing examinations with definitive answers available at a later stage.
“The victim has provided an initial description including the clothing worn by the perpetrator, as well as that he wore a motorcycle helmet during the attempt,” he added.
The uninjured businessman possesses considerable business interests, with police examining his professional connections as investigations continue across multiple fronts.
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