Suspects detained over attack on jewelry store are suspected of attempted bank robbery

Two men detained after an attempted robbery at a jewelry store in Larnaca have turned out to be suspects in another case — an attempted robbery of a bank branch in Kiti.

According to police, they are citizens of Israel and Romania. Investigators have obtained evidence linking them to both crimes.

During the attack on the jewelry store in the Drosia area, one of the perpetrators, dressed as a delivery courier and armed with a pistol, demanded valuables from the 73-year-old owner. Despite being struck on the head with the pistol, the owner resisted and managed to push the attacker out of the store. The criminal then got into a waiting car and fled.

Investigators also believe that the same men earlier tried to rob a bank branch in Kiti. They arrived at the building, put on masks and headed toward the entrance carrying bags, but the controlled-access door did not open. Unable to get inside, the suspects returned to the car and fled.

Both men remain in custody. The investigation is ongoing.