**Man Arrested for Attempted Armed Robbery in Larnaca**
Larnaca, Cyprus – A 33-year-old man was arrested late Tuesday night in connection with an attempted armed robbery that occurred earlier that week in a jewellery store in central Larnaca. The incident, which took place on Monday morning, left the store owner, a 73-year-old man, injured after he was struck on the head with a firearm during a confrontation with the suspect.
According to police reports, the robbery attempt was reported around 9 AM. The suspect entered the jewellery shop wearing a black motorcycle helmet, a long-sleeved black shirt, and a vest typically associated with food delivery services. He allegedly brandished a gun and threatened the shop owner, demanding valuables.
During the altercation, the owner resisted the attack, resulting in a struggle that culminated in the suspect hitting him on the head with the firearm. The injury sustained by the shop owner required medical attention and stitches, but he managed to force the suspect out of the store before he fled the scene in a vehicle that was reportedly waiting outside.
Following the incident, Larnaca police launched an investigation, led by criminal investigation head George Charalambous. Their efforts quickly led to the identification of a vehicle believed to have been used in the getaway. At approximately 7 PM on the same day, police located the car at a block of flats in Larnaca.
Upon searching the suspect's residence, authorities discovered ammunition and additional evidence linked to the robbery attempt. The 33-year-old suspect, who is reported to be a third national, was subsequently arrested on multiple charges. These include conspiracy to commit a crime, attempted robbery, illegal possession of a firearm, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and carrying a firearm with the intent to incite terror.
The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Larnaca district court on Tuesday for a remand order. In addition to the arrest of the primary suspect, police have issued an arrest warrant for a second individual believed to be connected to the case.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence and seek additional information regarding the incident. Police are urging anyone with further details to come forward to assist in the case.