Kidnappings and torture case uncovered in Paralimni: suspects appear before court

A serious criminal case described by police as a “crime movie plot” has been uncovered in Paralimni. The case involves kidnappings, torture, and brutal treatment of people carried out in a specially equipped premises.

Two suspects — men aged 48 and 27 — appeared before the Famagusta District Court in Paralimni under heightened security. A third suspect is currently wanted. It is known that the 48-year-old is already in custody in connection with another case involving a shooting that occurred on January 17.

According to investigators, the group may also be linked to extortion activities targeting local business owners.

During the court hearing, it emerged that a mobile phone was seized from the 48-year-old suspect following his arrest. Police found photo and video material on the device showing at least seven people being held against their will in a room on the ground floor of a building.

According to evidence presented in court, the recordings show the suspects beating the victims with their hands and various objects. In one episode, the 48-year-old man is seen holding a pistol and placing it in the mouth of one of the detainees. In another video, the 27-year-old suspect demands money from a victim and then strikes him in the face. The third wanted suspect allegedly used a belt, striking the victim’s lips until they bled.

In total, the suspects face 14 serious charges, including:

• conspiracy to commit a serious crime;
• illegal possession and transportation of firearms;
• kidnapping;
• torture;
• causing grievous bodily harm;
• carrying a weapon with intent to intimidate.

The 48-year-old suspect did not object to being remanded in custody but made an emotional statement in court, claiming that he himself is a victim of an attempted murder. The investigator replied that he would be able to present his version of events during an official interrogation.

The investigation continues.