Larnaca court keeps businessman in custody in alleged extortion case

Larnaca, Cyprus. A 44-year-old businessman charged in an alleged extortion case will remain in custody after the Larnaca criminal court rejected his request for conditional release on Thursday. The court ordered that he remain detained until the trial begins on September 18.

Four defendants face trial

The businessman is one of four defendants facing charges involving alleged extortion, threats, financial exploitation and money laundering.

He returned before the court after his lawyer sought his release under conditions. The other defendants are two men, aged 42 and 49, and a 45-year-old woman.

The 42-year-old man and the woman have been released on bail. The 49-year-old man remains in custody in connection with other cases before the same court.

Allegations and charges

The case concerns a complaint by an individual who alleges having been subjected to pressure, threats and financial exploitation over several years by people acting in an organised manner.

Three defendants, aged 44, 45 and 49, face 14 charges including involvement in a criminal organisation, conspiracy, unlawful detention, extortion, threats, illegal possession and transport of firearms and explosives, and money laundering.

The 42-year-old defendant faces 11 charges linked to the alleged organisation, including extortion, threats, money laundering and other offences.

Next hearing

At the September 18 hearing, the defendants are expected to be formally presented with the indictment and asked to enter pleas.