The Limassol District Court on Friday ordered the two suspects to be held for seven days as police investigate 11 alleged offences linked to the incident. Two police officers were injured during the pursuit and later discharged from hospital.
Van failed to stop for police
The pursuit began at around 10:40 am on Thursday when the van’s driver allegedly refused to stop for officers conducting bicycle patrols. Police had attempted to check the vehicle because it had no front registration plate.
According to police, the driver accelerated towards the officers, placing them in danger. Patrol units from the Limassol Police Division were called to the scene and pursued the van.
The driver allegedly continued recklessly and dangerously, failing to stop at junctions, running red lights and disregarding other traffic signs. The van also collided with parked vehicles.
Warning shots fired
Police fired warning shots while attempting to stop the vehicle. Although the van initially came to a halt, its driver allegedly accelerated towards officers again.
Both the driver and passenger were seen throwing objects at the police vehicles pursuing them, damaging the front windscreen of one police car.
The van eventually stopped after crashing into a traffic light. As officers approached, the two occupants allegedly attacked them and were arrested for offences committed in their presence.
During a subsequent search, police found a knife in the possession of the 19-year-old driver, who was also arrested on suspicion of unlawfully carrying a knife.
Driver tests positive for drugs
The two suspects were taken in for questioning. Police said the 19-year-old tested positive during a preliminary drug test.
Two officers injured during the pursuit were taken to Limassol General Hospital, where they received first aid before being discharged.
The court ordered the suspects to remain in custody for seven days while police investigate alleged offences including conspiracy to commit a felony and misdemeanour, acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm, malicious damage and several traffic violations.
Source: CNA
