Attempted murder investigation in Ayia Napa

A 33-year-old man escaped unhurt after unknown assailants opened fire on his vehicle in the Kokkines area of Ayia Napa at approximately 05:40 on August 21, 2026. The attackers fired about 10 rounds from an automatic weapon as the victim was driving near his home. Shortly after the shooting, a burning vehicle was discovered in an open area in Avgorou, which police suspect was used by the perpetrators; investigators have confirmed the car bore false license plates and may have been stolen.

The victim, who has no prior police record, is the brother of a man currently serving four life sentences for a quadruple murder in Ayia Napa in 2016. Authorities are investigating several motives, including a potential message intended for the incarcerated brother or a recent dispute involving the victim at a local nightlife venue. Famagusta CID is leading the investigation, which includes analyzing CCTV footage, forensic evidence from both scenes, and potential links to activities at the Central Prisons.

Police believe more than one person was involved in the attack. The investigation remains in its initial stages as authorities continue to map the route used by the perpetrators and collect witness statements.