33-year-old arrested after attempted armed robbery at Larnaca jewellery shop

Larnaca, Cyprus. A 33-year-old was arrested overnight following Monday’s attempted armed robbery in central Larnaca, during which a 73-year-old jewellery shop owner was injured after being struck on the head with a gun. Police said ammunition and evidence linked to the case were found during a search of the suspect’s residence.

Investigation and arrest

Police also located the vehicle believed to have been used as a getaway car. Larnaca police criminal investigation head George Charalambous said the car matching the description was found at 7pm at a block of flats in Larnaca.

The 33-year-old, described by police as a third-country national and the person responsible for the car, was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit a crime, attempted robbery, illegal possession of a firearm, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and carrying a firearm to incite terror.

An arrest warrant has also been issued for a second individual wanted in connection with the case. The suspect is due to appear before the Larnaca district court on Tuesday for a remand order.

Attempted robbery

According to Charalambous, police were notified at around 9am on Monday that a man had entered a jewellery store wearing a black motorcycle helmet, a black long-sleeved shirt and a food delivery company vest.

Police said the suspect allegedly threatened the shop owner with a gun. During the struggle that followed, the suspect struck the owner on the head, causing an injury that required stitches.