Case of two missing women deepens in Cyprus

Cypriot police are investigating the disappearance of two Russian women last seen two weeks ago, with a local newspaper reporting that a suspect has been detained in total secrecy and blood stains found in a holiday home could be linked to the case.

(Click here for an update to the case)

Police say 33-year-old Mariia Gazibagandova and 43-year-old Alraeesi Khaiat, both Russian nationals, were reported missing two weeks ago by an individual who said the two women were last seen at their place of residence in Larnaca on November 17.

Photos of the two women were released to the public on November 20, with police offering descriptions of the two missing persons and seeking information.

But Philenews reported on Monday morning that the arrest of an individual in connection with the case had been kept under wraps, adding that the suspect was jailed last week after a Larnaca judge ordered him in remanded custody. The arrest took place Friday but specific charges were not made known after the remand hearing on Saturday.

The daily went on to report that the suspect was approached by police after a tip pointed to the individual having transported Gazibagandova and Khaiat to a holiday home in Moniatis, Limassol district.

Police did not provide further details about the case but told Knews they were still investigating two cases of missing women.

But Philenews said blood stains found in various parts of the cottage raised red flags after DNA test results on Sunday suggested there was a match with one of the missing women.

Police sources cited by Philenews say the suspect told investigators that the two women were transported to Moniatis on their own free will and then brought back to their Larnaca residence on the same day.