Philenews

Details Emerge of Larnaaca Shooting: Protection Racket Suspected

Published January 18, 2026, 14:12
Details Emerge of Larnaaca Shooting: Protection Racket Suspected

The Larnaaca Police are investigating a bloody clash that took place on Grigoriou Afxentiou Avenue, involving individuals attempting to provide “protection” to businesses for a fee. According to evidence, a group approached a businessman and initially demanded €7,000 and then €1,000 per month for “protection,” threatening him when he refused. The incident escalated when the businessman was attacked by a member of the group outside his store, resulting in a brawl involving axes, sticks, and crowbars. During the clash, two shots were fired by the 48-year-old's group, fortunately without causing any injuries. Police have arrested the 48-year-old and are searching for other members of the group. At the same time, they are investigating the group's involvement in similar incidents at nightclubs in Larnaaca, where they allegedly took over their “protection” for a fee. Furthermore, the 48-year-old is also allegedly involved in the assault of a European citizen in Pyla, with police considering a new arrest for this incident as well.