Police arrest 28-year-old in Paphos for online bank fraud

Cypriot authorities arrested a 28-year-old man at Larnaca Airport on August 22, 2026, in connection with an online fraud case dating back to February 2026. The suspect was apprehended while attempting to depart the Republic of Cyprus.

The investigation began after a 49-year-old victim reported to the Paphos Criminal Investigation Department (CID) that he received a fraudulent phone call. The caller, posing as a representative from the victim's bank, claimed the account was being compromised. Under this false pretense, the victim disclosed his personal banking credentials. Subsequently, more than 6,800 euros were illicitly withdrawn from two of his accounts.

Following the arrest, the Paphos District Court granted a five-day detention order against the 28-year-old suspect. The Economic Crime Investigation Office of the Paphos CID is continuing its examination of the case to determine if other individuals were involved and to track the stolen funds.