Vandalism at 10 locations in Paphos: four perpetrators on motorcycle, thefts totalling €4,000
Ten businesses fell victim to vandalism in Paphos on Friday night into Saturday. Police believe this is retaliation by young people in response to intensive checks.
Four suspects with covered faces attacked pharmacies, fuel stations and kiosks in Lower Paphos, Chloraka and Pegeia
Police in Paphos recorded ten vandalism incidents at commercial premises during the night from Friday to Saturday, according to Philenews. The incidents took place between 03:00 and 05:30 in the early hours in Lower Paphos, Chloraka, Pegeia and other suburban areas.
According to Paphos Deputy Police Director Michalis Nikolaou, the perpetrators attacked three pharmacies, three fuel stations, two small supermarkets and two kiosks. The total value of stolen goods amounts to €4,000, whilst the extent of material damage has not yet been calculated.
Mr Nikolaou stated that investigations suggest the perpetrators numbered four, had their faces covered and all travelled together on the same motorcycle.
Retaliation for checks following incidents against food couriers
Responsible officers pointed out to Philenews that there was organised planning behind these acts, which are not considered random. Paphos Police Directorate believes the spate of vandalism constitutes a reaction by groups of young people to the intensive checks carried out in the preceding days.
These checks had commenced following serious incidents against food couriers that occurred on Tuesday night in the Mouttalos area. Subsequently, Paphos Police intensified patrols and checks to counter criminal behaviour and to locate individuals wanted in connection with those incidents.
The incidents on Friday had begun with the case in Tala, where unknown perpetrators caused damage to a pharmacy and café, whilst various items were also removed from the pharmacy.
Investigations continuing — appeal to witnesses
Teams from Paphos Directorate are working at an intensive pace to locate the perpetrators. In almost all cases there is visual material from closed-circuit cameras, which is being examined alongside witness statements and other information.
The Deputy Police Director of Paphos made an appeal to anyone who witnessed anything or learnt any information related to these matters to contact police immediately. The cases are being investigated as burglaries, criminal damage and thefts.
Officers of the force emphasised that these events will not only fail to halt the law-enforcement campaign, but will lead to its further intensification.
Source: Philenews