Larnaca shooting trial postponed again
The trial of five defendants linked to a Larnaca shooting incident in January was postponed again by the permanent criminal court, following a defence request for additional witness material, with all accused remaining in custody.
The court approved the request and set a new hearing date for April 28, accepting that the defence required further time to examine evidence.
The five defendants, aged 20, 26, 26, 32 and 48, face a series of offences including conspiracy to commit a felony, participation in a criminal syndicate, illegal possession and transportation of a firearm, possession of explosives, extortion, demanding property with threats, and assault causing actual bodily harm.
The 48-year-old and one of the 26-year-olds face additional charges relating to the alleged assault and torture of a 39-year-old in Pyla.
According to court proceedings, the defence sought further access to witness material as part of case preparation.
The court accepted the request, ruling that the additional time was necessary to ensure a fair trial process.
The case is part of a broader investigation into violent incidents that took place in Larnaca city centre on January 17, during which gunshots were fired near a police station following a confrontation linked to alleged demands for protection money.
Police allege that a group approached a businessman requesting an initial payment of €7,000 followed by monthly payments, and that threats and violence followed when the demands were refused.
Investigators have said the incident escalated into a clash involving weapons including knives, metal bars and an axe, during which two shots were discharged.
A firearm was reportedly found in the possession of one of the suspects.
Three additional suspects, aged 26, 27 and 35, are still being sought by authorities in connection with the same events.
Parallel proceedings have also taken place involving two businessmen, aged 47 and 43, who were arrested in connection with the shooting incident.
They face charges including interfering with the judicial process and conspiracy to commit a misdemeanour.