Suspects in Paphos jewelry theft head to court

The two main suspects in the jewelry theft case in Paphos are set to appear in court on Friday, with reports suggesting they were masters of their craft.

According to Cyprus News Agency, a 37-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman were arrested in Polis Chrysochous on Thursday, following a tip from a business owner who recognised the suspects in a photo released by police.

Both suspects, who were described as European citizens by CNA while some reports said they were from Romania, have admitted to stealing some 50 rings worth €20,000 at a jewelry store in Paphos earlier this week. 

Based on security cameras within the store, the woman appeared to have distracted the male jeweler by having a conversation about items she wanted to see up close, while the male suspect was looking for an opportunity to grab the rings.

The suspects were seen outside another jewelry store and police were notified, when 20 minutes later the two suspects were apprehended according to local reports.

Investigators believe the couple were pros and had a number of tricks up their sleeve. The person who notified police was reportedly the owner of another jewelry store, where the couple was spotted and identified.

The suspects reportedly claimed they had already sold the loot in the north.