Larnaca District Court orders detention of 44-year-old businessman

On June 23, the Larnaca District Court ordered the continued detention of a 44-year-old businessman until his trial. The defendant is charged alongside a 42-year-old businessman, a 49-year-old inmate, and a 45-year-old woman for allegedly defrauding an elderly person of tens of thousands of euros. All four defendants face serious charges, including money laundering, participation in a criminal organization, conspiracy to commit a felony, extortion, and threats. The case was referred to the Larnaca Permanent Assize Court, with hearings scheduled for August 3. The defense attorney, Antonis Dimitriou, had argued against detention, citing unequal treatment compared to other defendants and criticizing police handling. However, the prosecution successfully argued there is a risk of witness tampering. The 45-year-old woman was released on bail under strict conditions, including a 150,000 euro bond and travel restrictions. The main defendant is also implicated in a separate case involving alleged witness tampering related to a January 17 shooting incident.