Two individuals sent to trial over contract killing plot in Cyprus

Cypriot authorities have referred two individuals, aged 33 and 35, to the Permanent Assizes Court following a major international operation involving Europol and Danish police. The suspects, arrested on August 29, 2026, during operations in Larnaca and Ayia Napa, face charges of conspiracy to commit murder. The alleged plot targeted British twins, Jamie and Aaron Small, who had previously served prison time in the United Kingdom and were visiting Cyprus.

Six other individuals arrested in connection with the same investigation are set to be deported from Cyprus within the coming days, following the issuance of detention and deportation orders. Regarding the two suspects facing trial, the court has scheduled the first hearing for November 18, 2026. A decision on their continued detention is expected this coming Thursday, and they remain in custody until that time.

Reports indicate that the operation uncovered a broader scheme, where a 33-year-old Irish national allegedly paid money to an undercover Danish police officer posing as a hitman. Following the initial thwarted attempt, a second group of five Swedish nationals was allegedly dispatched to the island to complete the contract, leading to their subsequent arrest by authorities.