More than ten organised crime groups operating in Cyprus, Interpol says, pointing to rising period of criminality

More than ten organised crime groups operating in Cyprus, Interpol says, pointing to rising period of criminality

A global investigation over the past four years points to Cyprus as a hub for criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking, smuggling tobacco products, extortion, illegal betting, and fixing football matches. The report, based on Interpol data, highlights a rise in extreme criminality in Cyprus, with recent assassinations, arson attacks, bombings, and underworld killings. Criminal organizations in Cyprus are mostly foreign and involved in crimes against property, money laundering, drug trafficking, and bribing public officials. In 2024, there were 55 arsons and bomb attacks reported in 101 days.

A message with specific recipients behind the explosion at NAVA

A message with specific recipients behind the explosion at NAVA

A bomb attack occurred at the summer club “Nava” in the Pernera area of Protaras in the early hours of a Thursday, causing significant concern for the police. This incident is linked to a conflict over control of the nightlife in free Famagusta and has broader implications due to the club’s previous ownership by individuals from Nicosia. The attack, which involved a low-powered improvised explosive device causing extensive damage to the club, is under investigation for potential connections to recent bombings in Nicosia. The unclear ownership of the club complicates the investigation. The club, popular among holidaymakers from Nicosia, was closed for the winter season and was scheduled to reopen before summer. Evidence from the scene is being analyzed, and individuals connected to the club’s management and others are being questioned. The police are investigating the incident as an attempted destruction of property with explosives and are seeking further testimonies and video evidence from the area.