Police in Limassol on Monday arrested a 40-year-old sea sports operator as part of an investigation into an alleged assault and criminal damage incident that took place in a beach car park in the Amathounta area.
According to information obtained by Politis, the incident appears to be linked to concerns raised publicly by Amathounta Mayor Kyriakos Xydias during an interview on Politis 106.7 & 97.6 and the programme Morning Briefing regarding sea sports activities in the area, which he said had become a major headache for the authorities.
The mayor acknowledged that "there is a problem" and called on the competent authorities, namely the District Administration, to carry out immediate inspections.
He also commented that some individuals "believe the areas belong to them and do whatever they want".
What happened to the 48-year-old
According to a complaint filed with the Limassol CID by a 48-year-old foreign national, he was assaulted while at the beach car park by the 40-year-old operator and other individuals.
The alleged victim sustained a broken nose and bruising to various parts of his body.
Police investigations to date indicate that the incident stemmed from a dispute regarding parking and access to the beach.
More specifically, the 40-year-old is alleged to have parked his vehicle in a position that obstructed the passage of other vehicles. The 48-year-old reportedly caused minor damage to the 40-year-old's vehicle while attempting to pass.
The 40-year-old allegedly sought an explanation, leading to a verbal altercation.
According to the complaint and evidence under investigation, the 40-year-old and other individuals then attacked and beat the 48-year-old in front of his minor children.
The alleged assailants are also accused of throwing a large stone at the 48-year-old's vehicle, causing malicious damage.
The 40-year-old, who is known to the authorities, was arrested under a court warrant.
He appeared before the Limassol District Court on Monday, which issued a six-day detention order to facilitate investigations.
The Limassol CID is continuing its inquiries and is also investigating the involvement of other individuals alleged to have participated in the assault. Additional arrest warrants have not been ruled out.
Beyond the specific incident, Politis has learned that instructions have been issued for police to accompany local authorities and the District Administration during upcoming inspections concerning the status and operating licences of sea sports businesses.
The move follows indications of significant shortcomings in regulatory enforcement.
Responsibility for such inspections lies with the District Administration and the Marine Police.
