Cypriot Police Investigate Attempted Murder of 34-Year-Old Man, Review Past Cases

The Cypriot police are investigating the attempted murder of Dimitris Andronikos, a 34-year-old man also known as 'Dimitroui,' who was the target of a bold ambush on April 23, 2024, along the Paleochori - Anthoupolis road. Authorities are reviewing Dimitroui's past and current activities, including his connections to recent arsons at betting agencies in Nicosia, as they search for potential links to the attack.

The incident occurred around noon when Dimitroui, who was known to the authorities, was shot while riding a motorcycle. The assailants, riding a scooter-type motorcycle, approached Dimitroui and opened fire from close range, striking him three times, including a shot to the neck. Dimitroui lost control of his motorcycle and fell to the ground, while the perpetrators fled the scene. He was taken to Nicosia General Hospital in critical condition and underwent surgery.

Investigators are examining surveillance footage, Dimitroui's phone records, and questioning detainees to determine if the victim and perpetrators knew each other. The crime scene was cordoned off, and three shell casings were found. Authorities suspect the attackers were familiar with Dimitroui's movements, highlighting the need for improved preventive measures.

Why this matters: The attempted murder of Dimitris Andronikos is part of a disturbing trend of escalating organized crime in Cyprus. The bold attack in broad daylight underscores the challenges facing law enforcement in tackling crime associated with nightlife and the need for more effective measures to ensure public safety.

The attempted murder follows recent violent incidents, including the murders of Alexis Mavromichalis and Thanasis Kalogeropoulos last October, as well as the attempted murder of a 49-year-old man in January. Dimitroui had ties to Alexis Mavromichalis, who was murdered last October. The government spokesperson acknowledged the escalation of crime as a matter of concern and stated that all steps are being taken within the government's capabilities to address the issue, both preventively and repressively. However, the spokesperson noted that "there is always room for more action and improvement in tackling organized crime, which is a chronic and horizontal problem often linked to the issue of drugs."

Key Takeaways

• Cypriot police investigating attempted murder of Dimitris Andronikos, a 34-year-old man.
• Andronikos was shot 3 times, including in the neck, during a daylight ambush.
• Authorities examining Andronikos' past, including links to recent arsons at betting agencies.
• Incident part of escalating organized crime in Cyprus, challenging law enforcement.
• Government acknowledges need for more action to tackle chronic organized crime issue.