Larnaca, Cyprus. Cypriot authorities are investigating potential security implications after one of the suspects arrested in connection with an alleged Hamas cell was found to have four children serving in the republic’s security forces. Officials said checks have been carried out and no evidence has linked the children to the activities under investigation.
Family links under review
The suspect, a Cypriot national of Palestinian origin in his fifties, is the father of a serving police officer and three contract soldiers in the National Guard. At least two of the National Guard members are understood to be stationed in the same military unit.
The family connection has drawn scrutiny as part of the inquiry, particularly because one of the suspect’s children serves in a police role that involves access to databases containing information on Cypriot and foreign nationals.
Authorities examine service records
Police said the officer’s conduct and service record are being thoroughly examined. Authorities have also reviewed the service records of the suspect’s three children in the National Guard.
Officials said extensive checks have already been conducted and that no evidence has emerged connecting any of the children to the suspected activities.
Investigation in Cyprus and Greece
The case concerns an alleged Hamas network uncovered through coordinated investigations in Cyprus and Greece.
Four Palestinian men were arrested in Cyprus after intelligence-led operations in Larnaca and the Governor’s Beach area uncovered chemical substances that could be used in the manufacture of high-powered explosives.
Investigators are examining whether the materials were intended for attacks against Israeli-linked targets in Cyprus or elsewhere in Europe.
Suspect remains under investigation
The suspect remains under investigation. Current inquiries suggest he became radicalised over a period of years and allegedly attended events supporting Hamas following the organisation’s October 7 attacks in 2023.
