Police have launched an investigation into a targeted arson attack on a wine shop in Germasogeia, the second criminal act in three weeks against a foreign businessman closely linked to the late Stavros Demosthenous.
The incident occurred at approximately 03:40 on Thursday, 18 December, at a premises located on Georgiou Avenue. According to police reports, an unidentified individual approached the storefront and used a flammable liquid to ignite the entrance of the shop. The Fire Service managed to extinguish the blaze before it could spread to the interior.
The attack has caused significant concern within the Limassol Police Directorate, as it follows the destruction of four luxury vehicles belonging to the same businessman on 27 November. Those vehicles, which included high-end models valued at hundreds of thousands of euros, were torched in a private parking area in Mouttagiaka.
Investigators believe these serial attacks are an attempt by underworld elements to exert pressure on the foreign national, potentially regarding protection money or ongoing business disputes. The victim is a known associate of Stavros Demosthenous, the 49-year-old businessman and former president of Karmiotissa FC, who was assassinated in a professional hit on 17 October 2025.
Investigation and evidence
The scene has been cordoned off as forensic experts from the Limassol Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Fire Service conduct a detailed examination. While no injuries were reported, the fire caused visible damage to the glass facade and the entrance of the building.
Detectives are currently:
- Reviewing CCTV footage from Georgiou Avenue and surrounding businesses to track the perpetrator’s movements.
- Analysing forensic samples of the flammable liquid used.
- Preparing to take a statement from the owner, who is expected at the CID offices later today.
The Law Office is being kept informed of the developments, as the investigation into the assassination of Demosthenous—which has already seen arrests in Greece and Cyprus—remains active. Authorities are exploring whether this recent wave of arson is a direct continuation of the conflict that led to the October murder.
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