Suspect arrested in Dubai over alleged €800,000 murder plot against Giorgos Xiourouppas

Cypriot authorities have confirmed the arrest of a Greek Cypriot suspect at Dubai airport in connection with an alleged €800,000 contract to kill businessman Giorgos Xiourouppas. The suspect, identified as a former police officer with alleged links to organized crime in Greece and Cyprus, was intercepted by UAE authorities while attempting to leave the country. Investigators believe he played a pivotal role in the plot, allegedly directing a 36-year-old Bulgarian national to plant an explosive device on the businessman’s vehicle in exchange for financial support and residence assistance.

The case emerged following the November 10th police operation, 'Aegis,' which led to the arrest of four other individuals who currently remain in eight-day custody. Police report that a second primary suspect, a man of Arab descent, remains in Dubai and has denied any involvement. While authorities have not yet issued formal international arrest warrants, they are actively coordinating with their counterparts in the UAE through diplomatic channels to secure the suspect's extradition to Cyprus. It remains unclear whether the arrest was triggered by the Cypriot investigation or independent proceedings initiated by Emirati authorities.