New details have emerged in the case that authorities believe may have prevented potential terrorist attacks on the island.
Three of the four suspects arrested in connection with the investigation, aged 32, 38 and 54, appeared before the Larnaca District Court on Thursday and were referred directly to trial before the Criminal Court. The hearing was held behind closed doors, with proceedings scheduled to begin on 6 August.
According to information presented before the court, the 32-year-old suspect allegedly admitted in a statement that he had been approached in recent months by a Palestinian man residing in Malaysia who offered him financial support.
Alleged instructions for explosive materials
Investigators claim the 32-year-old travelled abroad on four occasions and, during one trip to Istanbul, allegedly received instructions on purchasing items and chemical substances intended for the construction of explosive devices.
Court proceedings reportedly heard that the Palestinian individual asked the suspect to photograph specific locations in Cyprus and allegedly revealed that he was a member of Hamas.
The same individual is also alleged to have promised the suspect monthly financial assistance.
Authorities further allege that the Palestinian man later sent the 38-year-old co-defendant to Cyprus because he believed he possessed the expertise required to manufacture explosive materials.
Materials traced to properties in Larnaca and Kornos
According to investigators, the 32-year-old directed authorities to shops where he allegedly purchased materials later discovered during searches at two properties — one in Kornos and another apartment in the Kamares area of Larnaca.
The materials were seized as part of the ongoing investigation.
Physics lecturer denies involvement
Authorities have established that the 38-year-old suspect lives in Malaysia with his family and works as a physics lecturer.
Investigators consider him to be the individual who allegedly guided the 32-year-old. However, the suspect reportedly claimed he travelled to Cyprus to apply for asylum and denied any knowledge of the materials recovered during the searches.
He also stated that he had known the 32-year-old for approximately two years through contacts in Malaysia and that arrangements had been made for him to stay with the co-defendant upon arriving in Cyprus.
Third suspect contests detention
The third defendant, aged 54, denies any involvement in the alleged plot.
However, prosecutors told the court that he is suspected of receiving a parcel on behalf of the 38-year-old defendant.
The 54-year-old challenged his detention, with the court reserving its decision on the matter.
Authorities continue to investigate the case, while the four suspects remain at the centre of one of the most significant counter-terrorism investigations conducted in Cyprus in recent years.
Also read: 22-year-old student kidnapped in Larnaca, ransom demanded from father
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