Three men wanted by Cypriot authorities are among 19 fugitives from 14 countries highlighted in Europol's latest EU Most Wanted campaign, which seeks public assistance in locating suspects wanted across Europe.
Cases linked to Cyprus
One of the fugitives, Irakli Diakonasvili, is wanted in connection with alleged offences involving the rape and sexual exploitation of a child, as well as child pornography. According to Europol, the investigation began after a complaint made in November 2023 by a 12-year-old child.
Alex Bureli is wanted in relation to homicide, arson and causing grievous bodily harm. Europol says the case concerns an armed attack at a restaurant in Ayia Napa in June 2016 in which three people were killed and two others seriously injured. He is also alleged to have been involved in plots linked to other killings in Cyprus.
David Gazayev is wanted over allegations including attempted murder, money laundering, extortion and participation in a criminal organisation. Europol states that he is suspected of involvement in the shooting of a 42-year-old Ukrainian national at a hotel in Limassol in September 2025.
Europol appeal
The campaign, supported by the European Network of Fugitive Active Search Teams (ENFAST) and Europol, focuses on fugitives wanted for serious offences, including crimes against children and older people.
Europol urges members of the public not to approach wanted persons but instead to submit information anonymously through the EU Most Wanted website, where information is forwarded directly to national fugitive search teams.
According to Europol, the platform has helped secure 191 arrests since its launch in 2016. In 58 cases, information provided by members of the public contributed to arrests.
Source: CNA
