Newsroom
In a developing story surrounding the escape of a 49-year-old suspect from a private clinic in Larnaca, two individuals have been arrested in connection to the case. The 49-year-old had been under guard at the clinic after being arrested earlier in December in connection to serious financial crimes in Sweden.
The two individuals arrested are a 44-year-old police officer and a 54-year-old lawyer. Authorities believe they played roles in helping the suspect escape while he was being treated for medical issues at the clinic on December 22, 2024.
The arrests were made in the early hours of today, following court warrants issued for charges related to aiding the escape, conspiracy to commit a felony, and abuse of power. Both suspects were arrested at their homes in Larnaca and were remanded in custody. They appeared in Larnaca District Court, where they were ordered to remain in custody for eight days.
In addition, the 49-year-old suspect, who was caught on December 23 after a manhunt, was also issued an eight-day detention order after his original detention expired.
The suspect had been detained on December 6 under a European Arrest Warrant, issued by Swedish authorities. He was wanted for alleged financial crimes amounting to €90 million. While under medical care for acute gastroenteritis and chest pain at the private clinic, he managed to escape on December 22.
Following his escape, the police launched a manhunt that involved several law enforcement units, including the Larnaca Police Directorate and the Special Forces (M.M.A.D.). On December 23, he was found hiding on the fifth floor of a building under construction in central Larnaca.
Authorities continue to investigate how the escape occurred and what role the arrested individuals played in the events. The case is a major blow to the reputation of the police force, leading to the suspension of two officers involved in guarding the suspect during his time at the clinic.
