Five suspects were arrested late on Monday in connection with a shootout on Larnaca’s busiest street that has exposed a violent protection racket targeting businesses across the city.
The arrests follow Saturday’s incident on Grigori Afxentiou Avenue, where shots were fired during a fight involving axes, wooden clubs and crowbars that endangered passing civilians.
The violence has prompted Justice Minister Costas Fytiris to publicly call for action to tackle the criminal networks at their root, with pressure mounting on police to halt the illegal activity immediately.
Larnaca’s Criminal Investigation Department now holds at least two named complaints against a criminal group allegedly led by a 48-year-old man currently in custody at Larnaca hospital.
One complaint came from a businessman involved in Saturday’s incident, who reported being asked for €7,000 and then €1,000 monthly for protection.
A second complaint involves the beating of a European citizen in Pyla the previous day, from whom money for protection was apparently demanded.
Police received information on 16 January, according to court testimony during the 48-year-old’s detention proceedings, that the group approached at least two entertainment venues.
In one case, protection allegedly changed hands. According to evidence collected by police, the 48-year-old is allegedly paid €80 per night by nightclub owners for each private guard—€50 as the guard’s wage and €30 as payment for protection.
A complaint received by Phileleftheros on Monday reveals the criminal networks’ methods in the tourist area of Oroklini, where dozens of businesses operate.
A source who requested anonymity said a group of 15 people began approaching business owners about two months ago, demanding money for protection.
“They got in cars and went to businesses in the tourist area and started demanding protection, intimidating people,” the source said.
“They asked for money on various dates from pubs, kiosks, even souvlaki shops in the area. They were very provocative and in some cases caused traffic problems with their cars. We were told the police were also informed.”
Some business owners appear to have accepted the new arrangement under fear of criminal action against them, according to reports.
Larnaca Mayor Andreas Vyras confirmed the same complaint was made to the municipality after Saturday’s incident, saying it “appears to be valid”. He didn’t hide his anger about the incidents, which occurred just 100 metres from the Larnaca Police Headquarters.
This is not the first time these issues have been raised with police, Vyras said, noting that while trials and criminal cases are pending, the same people repeat illegal actions within days.
“Organised crime is not dealt with only through patrols,” he said. “Much more is needed to limit it.” The municipality is willing to support police efforts, he added.
The five suspects arrested late on Monday were among eight foreign nationals wanted for Saturday’s shooting. They will appear today before Larnaca District Court for detention orders.
The 48-year-old Cypriot remains under eight-day detention and underwent surgery on Monday for head and hand injuries.
Four foreign nationals are still wanted, two of whom allegedly fled abroad.
Police are investigating offences including conspiracy to commit a felony, illegal possession and transport of a firearm, illegal possession of explosives, extortion, demanding property with threats, participation in a criminal organisation, and assault causing actual bodily harm.
No charges were brought against those seen in video footage counterattacking with an axe and crowbars. Police told the court the complainants used “proportionate force” to “secure their physical integrity and property”.
Two shots were fired outside the fast food restaurant during the fight, but fortunately no one was injured.