Larnaca, Cyprus. A 22-year-old contract soldier charged over the attempted murder of a 47-year-old businessman appeared before Larnaca criminal court on Monday and pleaded not guilty, police said. The next hearing has been set for March 18 at 9am.
Charges and court proceedings
Police said the defendant faces nine charges, including conspiracy to commit murder, conspiracy to commit felony and theft, and illegal possession of two firearms—Class A and Class B—along with ammunition. He also faces a second attempted murder charge against the same businessman on a later date.
Arrest and search findings
The 22-year-old was arrested on November 17 as part of the investigation, police said. A search of his home uncovered a 9mm pistol, ammunition, two anthropomorphic face masks and four mobile phones, though police said the firearm was not linked to any crimes.
Investigation details
Police said the arrest followed information received in mid-October after the suspect confessed the attempted murder to a third party. Investigators suspect he tracked the businessman’s location and took leave from work on the day of the attack.
Police said clothing the suspect dropped while fleeing was recovered, with DNA tests confirming the items matched him. Videos on his phone allegedly showed him following the target after the attempt, and police said he recorded the businessman’s locations and made voice notes.
Incident location and timing
The attack occurred shortly after 11am as the 47-year-old cycled from the Dromolaxia industrial zone to Larnaca’s Krasa area, police said.
What do you think the court will focus on at the next hearing on March 18?