Larnaca, Cyprus. Four men arrested in connection with an alleged Hamas cell operating in Cyprus are due to appear before the Larnaca district court on Thursday. The suspects, aged 32, 38, 54 and 57, were detained following intelligence-led operations linked to allegations that a network had been established in Cyprus with connections to Hamas.
Investigation focus
According to Phileleftheros, investigators are understood to regard the 38-year-old suspect as a central figure in the case. He allegedly entered the republic through the north and played a key role in organising the network as a ringleader.
Allegations against suspect
Testimony gathered by authorities is said to place the 38-year-old at the centre of recruitment and operational planning activities. Evidence examined by Cypriot and Greek investigators reportedly links him to a 37-year-old Palestinian man arrested in Agios Nikolaos, Crete, last weekend.
Cross-border links
Greek authorities allege the man arrested in Crete travelled to Malaysia, where he received training in the production of high-powered explosive devices. According to testimony cited in the investigation, the 38-year-old suspect in Cyprus arranged travel for the man and facilitated his participation in the training programme.
Inquiry developments
The suspect arrested in Crete reportedly told investigators that he had reconsidered his involvement but ultimately proceeded with the trip after arrangements had already been made on his behalf. The inquiry intensified after investigators discovered substances capable of being used in powerful explosives.