Court denies release for suspect in Stavros Dimosthenous murder case

The Limassol Permanent Assize Court has denied a request for release by a 28-year-old suspect charged in connection with the murder of businessman Stavros Dimosthenous, which occurred on October 17, 2025. The defendant, who allegedly drove a vehicle to facilitate the escape of other perpetrators, sought to be released on restrictive conditions, but the court ruled that there remains a significant probability of conviction and a risk of flight. The court noted that the defendant had previously fled to Greece after the crime and was apprehended in Thessaloniki via a European Arrest Warrant. Six individuals in total are facing charges, including two 30-year-olds, a 31-year-old, a 51-year-old, and two 28-year-olds. Charges against the group include premeditated murder, conspiracy, arson, and illegal possession of firearms and explosives, with the 51-year-old also facing a count of receiving stolen goods. During a procedural hearing on March 24, the court granted an adjournment requested by defense lawyers, who cited the need to review critical witness materials and pending forensic reports. Consequently, the trial is now scheduled to commence on April 29, 2026. The court emphasized that no new circumstances have emerged to justify a change in the defendant's custody status.