It is recalled that, at a previous hearing, three of the four accused were released under conditions, after the court removed certain charges from the indictment. The three, a 42‑year‑old and two 29‑year‑olds, had challenged their continued detention.
Only the 22‑year‑old contract soldier remains in custody, as he also faces charges related to the attempted murder of a known businessman. A 32‑year‑old defendant had earlier been acquitted due to insufficient evidence.
The court ruled that the substantial changes to the indictment justified reconsideration of the detention of the three accused. It also took into account their personal circumstances and ties to Cyprus, which reduce the risk of absconding.
The three were released on conditions, including signing €30,000 guarantees with reliable guarantors, surrendering their travel documents and reporting to a police station three times a week. Their names have also been placed on a stop list.
Several charges have been removed from the case. The 42‑year‑old now faces charges related to money laundering and participation in a criminal organisation, while the two 29‑year‑olds face an additional charge of assisting in money laundering.
At a previous hearing, all defendants pleaded not guilty. The trial is set to begin on 16 September 2026.
It is noted that the four were arrested on 22 January during a large police operation in Larnaca and the Central Prisons.
