Police in Larnaca arrested five people. This happened after a fight last weekend. The fight involved a gun. Police think it is about a protection racket. The five people will stay in jail for eight days. This news makes businesses worried.
Police are looking into threats. They believe some businesses were targeted. This happened in tourist places. The fight on Saturday was very dangerous. People used knives and axes. It seems to be about getting money.
Police are charging the people with crimes. These include illegal gun use. They also face charges for taking money. The group offered protection. But they asked for much money. One business owner was asked for €7,000. Then they wanted €1,000 each month.
Police learned about the plan in January. A man in hospital may have led the group. Nightclub owners paid him for guards. About 15 people might have worked for two months.
Four of the five arrested admit they were at the fight. The Justice Minister is worried. He wants police to act strongly. Police are watching cameras and asking questions. They want to stop this group. This should help businesses feel safe.