Larnaca, Cyprus. Five men pleaded not guilty on Friday at the Larnaca permanent criminal court to multiple charges linked to violent incidents in the city on January 17. Three more suspects remain wanted by police, and the next hearing is set for July 6.
Charges and defendants
The defendants, aged 20, 26, 26, 32 and 48, face charges including conspiracy to commit a felony, illegal possession and transport of firearms and explosives, extortion, threats, participation in a criminal organisation, and assault causing actual bodily harm.
Four of the defendants are recognised political refugees from Jordan and Palestine, while the 48-year-old is a Cypriot citizen.
Additional suspects sought
Police are still seeking three additional suspects, aged 26, 27 and 35, in connection with the January 17 incidents.
Separate Pyla case
Two defendants, aged 48 and 26, also face separate charges over the alleged assault of a 39-year-old European national in Pyla.
Police are also searching for a 27-year-old suspect in that case. The allegations include grievous bodily harm, assault, threats, and stabbing.
Wider organised crime investigation
The January incidents led to intensified police investigations into organised crime in Larnaca, including extortion and protection rackets linked to nightlife venues.
Previous investigations examined claims that criminal groups imposed security personnel on clubs while demanding protection money, as well as violent clashes and shootings in the area.
What do you think the July 6 hearing could clarify about the January 17 incidents in Larnaca?