Limassol, Cyprus. A 49-year-old businessman arrested over the arson of a luxury car showroom in Limassol was released on Tuesday after a court ruled the evidence did not justify continued detention, while a 28-year-old suspect remained in custody.
Court ruling and remand request
The two men were brought before the court by Limassol CID after police sought a further four-day remand to advance the investigation. Defence lawyers objected, prompting the court to reserve its decision.
On Tuesday, the judge ordered the release of the 49-year-old, who is also a car salesman, but renewed the detention of the 28-year-old, who was found in possession of an SUV linked to the incident.
Surveillance footage and investigation focus
Investigators told the court that analysis of surveillance footage pointed to the possible involvement of a second individual, shifting the focus of the inquiry as forensic and video examinations continue.
According to police testimony, CCTV footage was examined from the wider area and along routes leading out of Limassol. Footage showed an SUV approaching the showroom shortly before the fire and leaving immediately afterwards.
Investigators said the vehicle was tracked towards Ayia Fyla before reaching Nicosia. At a petrol station, images captured a person exiting the vehicle whose clothing and footwear differed from those of the 28-year-old suspect, raising doubts that he acted alone.
Police said camera analysis suggested the presence of a second person inside the vehicle.
What do you think the CCTV evidence could mean for the investigation’s next steps?