Police on Monday discovered a weapons cache in Kokkinotrimithia connected to a criminal network allegedly receiving instructions from Central Prison inmates.
The discovery opens serious criminal cases and validates theories regarding coordinated criminal strikes in Larnaca and other areas. Investigators are examining criminal activities conducted in recent weeks on an island-wide basis, focusing on six incidents in Larnaca and one in the British Bases.
Police believe they prevented planned criminal activities by the group after discovering weapons and ammunition in their possession.
Investigation connects hideout to multiple criminal activities across Cyprus
Larnaca Police consider the 14 August attempted murder and arson of four vehicles at car rental premises in Pyla “solved” following the arrest of six persons, including a Central Prison convict. Evidence suggests connections to at least three additional criminal activities.
The first occurred in late June involving vehicle arson in Larnaca belonging to a person well-known to authorities. A 17-year-old arrested for that incident allegedly participated in the Pyla attempted murder. The minor was charged and reportedly admitted guilt but was released under conditions by the court.
Additional incidents include 15 August vehicle arson in Aradippou involving a 42-year-old’s car, and vehicle arson targeting an elderly person in Dasaki Achnas ten days ago, potentially involving mistaken identity as no organised crime connections were identified.
Five firearms and drugs seized in Kokkinotrimithia operation
Police discovered four pistols, one air rifle with scope, multiple 9mm cartridges and loaded magazines during the operation at a remote portable warehouse. Investigators are examining whether ammunition was used in criminal activities.
Authorities seized 2.17 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and 34 grams of cocaine, indicating parallel criminal drug trafficking activities by the illegal network.
Larnaca CID arrested five men for the Pyla incident, with three identified as perpetrators: a 23-year-old suspected of vehicle arson, a 17-year-old who allegedly shot the security guard, a 17-year-old believed to have driven the getaway vehicle, a 27-year-old who reportedly provided the vehicle, and a 44-year-old Central Prison convict.
The investigation breakthrough occurred when an 18-year-old was accidentally arrested in Paphos on 22 August. He allegedly stole the green saloon vehicle used by perpetrators from Kolossi on 13 August, admitting to selling two stolen vehicles to the 27-year-old for €500.