Four arrested in police raid on Paphos restaurant during organized crime operation

On the evening of Sunday, February 8, Cypriot police conducted a special operation at a restaurant in Old Paphos targeting organized crime. Officers in masks and body armor raided the venue during a private party attended by approximately 65 people, including women and children. Four men, aged 29 to 45, were arrested, and authorities seized 23,810 euros in cash along with brass knuckles. During a court hearing on February 9, two suspects claimed they were unemployed and the money was from social benefits, while a third claimed to be a tourist. The suspects were remanded in custody until February 11, with one requiring a translator for his testimony. The party organizer asserted the men were arrested outside the restaurant and were not guests. Additionally, the 63-year-old restaurant owner faces charges for operating without valid licenses for business, alcohol, and music. Alpha TV reported the suspects may be security personnel for a person of interest.