Larnaca, Cyprus. Two defendants in a torture case linked to organised crime in Pyla are expected to state their pleas on May 14 after proceedings were adjourned before the Larnaca permanent criminal court. Defence lawyers requested more time, and the court set the next hearing for mid-May.
Court hearing and charges
The 48-year-old and 27-year-old appeared in court on Tuesday. They face 16 common charges, including conspiracy to commit a felony, participation in a criminal syndicate, abduction, and acts intended to cause serious bodily harm.
Additional counts relate to common assault, stabbing, and possession and transportation of a firearm. Prosecutors have also filed charges under legislation concerning torture and inhumane or degrading treatment.
Related allegations and timeline
In a related aspect of the case, the 48-year-old and another suspect still at large face additional charges connected to inciting the execution of a document.
The case concerns alleged offences committed during the summer of 2025 in Larnaca.
Investigation and evidence
Police investigations intensified earlier this year following the arrest of the 48-year-old on February 6 in connection with a broader probe into violent incidents, including a shooting and brawl in the city on January 17.
Evidence presented in earlier proceedings includes video material recovered from mobile devices, which authorities are examining as part of a wider body of more than 3,000 files.
Prosecution claims
Prosecution allegations describe a pattern of sustained violence, with victims allegedly held against their will and subjected to repeated assaults in premises in Pyla.
What do you think the court will consider most important when assessing the charges at the next hearing?
