hamas network — A 32-year-old Palestinian man at the centre of a Hamas network uncovered in Cyprus has confessed to his involvement in purchasing materials for explosives and photographing potential targets across the island.
The man, who has been residing in Cyprus for several years with his wife and child, revealed that he was recruited by a Hamas member based in Malaysia. His confession indicates that he undertook multiple trips abroad to receive instructions on obtaining these dangerous materials.
Hamas network: Connections to a Physics Teacher
In a troubling twist, the suspect admitted to bringing a 38-year-old Palestinian physics teacher to Cyprus specifically for the purpose of assembling explosive devices. This teacher had entered the government-controlled areas from the occupied territories shortly before his arrest and had been living in Malaysia prior to that.
Law Enforcement Action
Cypriot authorities acted on intelligence and arrested both men on 21 May in an area near Pentakomo. Following these arrests, a third suspect, a 54-year-old Palestinian with Cypriot citizenship, was detained for allegedly receiving packages containing hazardous substances for the 32-year-old. He has denied involvement, and his brother was initially arrested but later released due to a lack of evidence.
Details of the Recruitment
According to the confession from the primary suspect, a Hamas operative offered him financial assistance, which motivated his actions. He reportedly made four trips abroad, including visits to Malaysia and Istanbul, to receive further instructions. During these trips, he was allegedly promised a monthly salary for his services.
Surveillance and Evidence Found
Cypriot police discovered large quantities of dangerous chemicals and equipment linked to the 32-year-old at two properties: one at Governor’s Beach and another in the Kamares area of Larnaca. A third property in Kolossi was also connected to him, where packages sent by his recruiter were believed to have been received.
Claims and Counterclaims
The physics teacher, while denying any connections to terrorist activities, claimed he came to Cyprus seeking asylum and had met the 32-year-old two years prior in Malaysia. However, his assertions were challenged when a separate suspect, a 37-year-old Palestinian arrested in Crete, named him in connection with training in explosives-making at a Hamas camp in Malaysia.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
All three suspects have been brought before Larnaca District Court under heavy security measures, with proceedings held behind closed doors. They are scheduled to face trial in a Criminal Court on 6 August. Charges against them include terrorism, conspiracy to commit murder, conspiracy to commit a felony, money laundering, and participation in a criminal organisation. The 54-year-old contested his detention, but the court has yet to make a decision.
