Authorities say a criminal gang in Larnaca systematically extorted nightclubs in exchange for protection, spreading fear and intimidation.
Investigations by police have focused on a 48-year-old suspect (Cypriot national of foreign origin), currently detained for a violent incident outside the city’s main police station on 17 January. A 27-year-old accomplice of Arab descentwas also arrested.
Both were brought before the Famagusta District Court on Saturday and remanded for eight days. They face serious charges including conspiracy to commit a felony, illegal possession and transport of firearms, kidnapping, torture, grievous bodily harm, carrying weapons to cause terror, and knife offences. Another suspect is being sought for involvement in the 17 January incident, during which shots were fired.
Evidence of torture
Court documents reveal that the 48-year-old, reportedly the gang’s leader, and the wanted suspect demanded protection money from a businessman on Gr. Afxentiou Avenue. Police found numerous videos and photos on the 48-year-old’s phones showing seven individuals being brutally tortured.
The abuse took place in a casino in Pyla, linked to the 48-year-old. Videos reportedly show the victims held against their will, assaulted in the face, threatened at gunpoint, and in some cases having guns placed in their mouths. The attacks occurred at different times throughout 2025.
Inhumane treatment
One 58-second video shows a victim sitting on a sofa with a swollen eye and head injuries. The 48-year-old is seen punching, spitting on, and verbally abusing him. At one point, the victim urinates involuntarily due to the violence.
Another video shows the same victim struck in the head with a knife blade, suffering severe injuries, while the suspect allegedly threatens to burn his genitals. Additional footage shows victims crying, falling from chairs, and bleeding while being struck with knives, belts, and threatened with firearms.
Police say the videos depict extreme physical and psychological abuse, confirming the gang’s reign of terror over the city.