Suspect arrested in Dubai over alleged 800,000 euro contract killing plot

Authorities have foiled an alleged plot to assassinate a 55-year-old businessman in Cyprus, involving an 800,000-euro contract. The case is being handled by the newly established anti-organized crime unit. A 36-year-old Bulgarian national, previously deported from Cyprus in 2014, was arrested and confessed that he was hired to place an explosive device on the target's vehicle. He claimed he was instructed via video call by a suspect identified as 'A' and a second individual, both of whom were located in Dubai at the time of the incident.

The second suspect, a Greek-Cypriot former police officer with known ties to organized crime networks in Greece and Cyprus, reportedly promised the 36-year-old financial support for his family and assistance with residency status in exchange for the killing. The primary suspect is described as an individual of Arab descent with a criminal record. As of November 15, 2026, reports indicate that the Greek-Cypriot suspect has been arrested at a Dubai airport, while the search for the second man continues. Four other individuals, including three Greek-Cypriots, remain in custody in Cyprus under an eight-day detention order as the investigation proceeds.