Three suspects referred to trial in Cyprus organized crime operation

Three individuals, a 45-year-old special police officer and a Greek couple aged 49 and 50, appeared before the Limassol District Court on Friday. They were arrested during a coordinated operation by the newly formed Sub-Directorate for Combating Organized Crime to dismantle a criminal network with international links. The 45-year-old officer, who is currently on suspension, faces charges including money laundering, illegal possession of property, explosives, drugs, and theft. The Greek couple faces charges of conspiracy, participation in a criminal organization, money laundering, filing false tax declarations, and illegal possession of property. All three suspects have reportedly not cooperated with the investigators. The court approved their referral to the Permanent Criminal Court of Limassol, with the officer's trial scheduled for June 25. Authorities have already frozen assets amounting to 430,000 euros in connection with the investigation. The defendants are expected to be released under restrictive conditions pending trial.