Police in Larnaca are investigating five criminal incidents that occurred between 14 July and 15 August, including three attempted murders, vehicle arson and shots fired at a car.
Investigators have identified connections between two of the cases and are examining potential links amongst the remaining three incidents. The cases involve shootings, vehicle fires and an attack on a car rental business.
Larnaca mayor Andreas Vyras met with police director Yiannis Sotiriades to discuss the incidents. “We are concerned about serious crime and recent incidents,” Vyras said, adding that police had assured him additional measures were being implemented and a public protection plan was in place.
Police communications officer Marina Christodoulidou said investigations were continuing intensively and remained in full progress, with specialised forensic examinations pending.
The incidents began on 14 July when a 49-year-old man was shot outside his residence in Pyla, sustaining a leg wound. He had exited a vehicle carrying his partner and her 12-year-old daughter.
On 31 July, a 47-year-old man reported being shot at whilst cycling in the Dromolaxia industrial area. The man was uninjured and told police the shots came from someone on a motorcycle who subsequently fled on foot.
On 8 August, shots were fired at a 25-year-old woman’s vehicle in Oroklini. Police believe the incident may have been directed at her partner.
Two incidents occurred within 24 hours in mid-August. On 14 August, two perpetrators targeted a car rental company on the coastal road in Pyla, with one shooting at a security guard and another setting fire to four vehicles. The following day, a 42-year-old man’s car was set alight in Aradippou.
Police have linked the two most recent incidents, with investigations extending to examination of connections within the prisons.
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