A violent fight with a gun in Larnaca last weekend has uncovered a suspected protection racket. Police arrested five people. They will stay in custody for eight days. This news worries local businesses. Police are investigating claims of threats and organized crime. They believe businesses, especially in tourist areas like Oroklini and Pyla, were targeted.
The fight happened on Saturday. People used knives and axes. This created a dangerous situation. The fight seems to be about a plan to get money from businesses. Police are charging people with many crimes. These include planning a felony and illegal gun possession. They also face charges for extortion and being in a criminal group.
The group apparently offered protection to businesses. However, they asked for a lot of money. One business owner reported demands for €7,000 at first. Then, they wanted €1,000 each month. A European citizen was also attacked in Pyla before the Larnaca incident. Similar demands were made.
Police learned in January that the group planned to contact entertainment places. A 48-year-old man, who is in hospital, may have led the demands. Nightclub owners reportedly paid him about €80 each night for guards. Some of this money may have gone to the protection payments. About 15 people might have worked in Oroklini for two months.
Four of the five arrested people admit they were at the fight. One person says they were somewhere else. The Justice Minister is worried about these criminal groups. He said police must act strongly. Police are watching cameras and questioning people. The investigation is ongoing. Authorities want to stop this criminal group. This case should help businesses feel safer.