Cyprus Times

Larnaca Shooting: €7,000 Protection Money Demanded, 48-Year-Old Detained

Published January 18, 2026, 15:05
Larnaca Shooting: €7,000 Protection Money Demanded, 48-Year-Old Detained

Police are investigating a bloody shooting incident in Larnaca, reportedly linked to extortion for protection money from organized crime. According to information, a group approached a businessman and initially demanded €7,000 and then €1,000 per month for protection, threatening him when he refused. Prior to the shooting, the businessman reported threats and an assault by a person of Arab origin. A 48-year-old man has been detained for 8 days, while two other suspects, aged 28 and 29, remain in custody. The possibility of re-arresting the 48-year-old for a previous assault in Pyla is not ruled out. Police have video footage of the incident.