Xylofagou, Cyprus. Police arrested one person and secured an eight-day remand order after a violent clash involving two groups of Syrian nationals in Xylofagou on Wednesday night. Investigations are continuing to identify the remaining participants.
Police investigation
Police spokesman Vyron Vyronos told the Cyprus Mail that one suspect has been arrested and remanded in custody for eight days, while investigations into the incident are ongoing.
According to police, information about the fight was received shortly before 10pm on Wednesday. Around 15 to 20 people of Syrian origin were reportedly involved in the brawl, during which knives, metal bars, wooden sticks and clubs were allegedly used.
Investigators also recovered several items believed to have been used during the clash, including knives and other offensive weapons.
Cause of the clash
Xylofagou community leader Giorgos Ioulianos said the fight broke out between two rival groups of Syrians over financial disputes.
According to Ioulianos, most of those involved are residents of the area. He said the background to the clash related to financial differences between the two groups.
Local response
Asked whether such incidents are common in the community, Ioulianos said this was an isolated event.
He said that until now, none of those involved had caused problems for the community and added that calm had returned to the village.
Ongoing inquiries
The Famagusta CID is continuing its investigation, examining witness statements and CCTV footage from the area.