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Cyprus arrests two Palestinians in possible terror attack probe

Police uncovered materials believed to be capable of use in the manufacture of explosives.

The beach in Paphos, Cyprus, May 28, 2018. Photo by Mendy Hechtman/Flash90.
The beach in Paphos, Cyprus, May 28, 2018. Photo by Mendy Hechtman/Flash90.

Authorities in Cyprus arrested two men on terrorism-related suspicions after searches uncovered materials believed to be capable of use in the manufacture of explosives, police said.

Local media identified the suspects as Palestinians.

The suspects, ages 32 and 38, were arrested under court warrants following an intelligence-led operation near Governor’s Beach on Cyprus’s southern coast. Police later searched two residences in the Larnaca district linked to one of the suspects, seizing evidence, including items and chemical mixtures.

A district court in Larnaca ordered both men held for eight days pending an investigation into suspected terrorism-related offenses and possible participation in a criminal organization.

Police spokesman Vyron Vyronos said the case was being investigated in coordination with other state agencies and international partners, in line with Cyprus’s international obligations. He added that authorities were still examining whether the suspects had been planning an attack on the island.

The investigation remains ongoing, and Cypriot media reported that authorities have not ruled out additional arrests.

“In this political environment, he may be as reliable a supporter as possible that the Democratic caucus would sign off on for the position,” political science scholar Dan Schnur told JNS.
“Anyone who attempts to pose a threat or attack Israel will face devastating consequences,” said Danny Danon, Israeli ambassador to the global body.
“I think they’re much more susceptible to being targeted if a public official wants to target them, if a community wants to target them,” Rep. Josh Gottheimer told JNS.
“For the love of God, if Israel is not capable of creating an investigation committee, then I think it is suitable and appropriate that the good people of the United States, the people in Congress, do provide us the answers that we’re looking for,” Ruby Chen said.