Newsroom
Police are in a state of high alert after convicted murderer Doros Theofanous, infamously known as "The Hairdresser," escaped from custody on Thursday, September 26. The 42-year-old lifer fled through the window of his parents' home in Choletria, Paphos, where he had been staying after being granted temporary leave from the Central Prison.
Authorities immediately launched a manhunt, deploying helicopters, trained dogs, and drones to aid in the search.
A Calculated Escape
Theofanous, sentenced to life imprisonment for one of Cyprus' most horrific crimes, had apparently premeditated his escape. Accompanied by four prison guards and three members of the police special force, he asked for permission to leave their supervision momentarily, gaining their trust before vanishing. It appears he used his leave of absence to familiarize himself with security procedures, and with the help of his father and another individual, orchestrated his escape plan.
Police have arrested two accomplices — Theofanous’ 68-year-old father and a 43-year-old man — both of whom are facing charges of conspiracy and aiding in his escape. In addition, three police officers involved in supervising Theofanous have been suspended pending a disciplinary investigation.
The Gruesome Crime Behind the Conviction
Theofanous was convicted for the 2011 double murder of 24-year-old Yulia Oboroc and her three-year-old daughter, Victoria, a crime that shocked the nation. Oboroc, who was pregnant at the time, was found shot in her car near Geroskipou, while her child was discovered drowned in the sea nearby. The court deemed Theofanous' motive to be driven by pathological jealousy and financial problems.
The convict was sentenced to life in prison, with the court rejecting his defense and upholding witness testimony, including that of another convicted murderer who revealed the location of the murder weapon.
The victim Yulia Oboroc and her baby girl
Police Appeal for Public Help
Authorities are urging the public to provide any information that may lead to Theofanous' capture. Anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts is asked to contact the Paphos Police Station or the Citizen's Contact Line.
Fugitive Doros Theofanous
[With info from 24 News]
