Remand order renewed for officers suspected of threats on social media

Paphos district court has ordered the renewal of a remand for two special constables who  allegedly made threats against the city’s police chief on social media.

Police told the court that the first suspect aged 41 was being investigated for threats of violence, written threats, corruption, abuse of power, and sending insulting and threatening messages.

The second special constable, also aged 41, is being investigated for crimes relating to breach of official secrecy and conspiracy to commit a misdemeanour.

Investigations have not been completed and police requested the renewal of their detention.

More statements need to be taken by family members, friends, and colleagues of the two suspects, the court heard. Phone records and computers are also expected to be examined, and a court order has been requested to this end.

Police told the court releasing the pair at this stage could affect the investigation and that they were a flight risk. There was also  a possibility they could influence witnesses. Several of the witnesses are former colleagues.

The remand for the first suspect was renewed for another four days, and for the second, two days.

The two constables were arrested after being implicated by a 55-year-old man. He was arrested last Saturday and was charged and released.

The threats were made on Facebook against Paphos Police Chief Nicos Pentaras.