Police seek murder attempt suspect escaping detention

Police on Sunday said they were looking for the whereabouts of a 43-year-old male detainee who escaped after being transferred to the Paphos hospital.

Younes Amrani Boukhobza from Morocco had been arrested and remanded earlier in the week on the suspicion of intentionally hitting a 42-year-old man with his car last August in Paphos. Another man, 29, who was with the victim, was also injured. The suspect was being investigated for attempted murder.

Police released Boukhobza’s photo, calling on the public to assist in locating him after escaping lawful detention on Saturday in Paphos.

State broadcaster CyBC reported that the suspect was transferred to the Paphos hospital in the evening after complaining he was feeling unwell, but as soon as he stepped out of the police car, he ran off still in handcuffs. It is believed he has links with members of organised crime rings, CyBC reported.

The police chief ordered a probe into the incident and, reportedly, the suspension of the officers who were escorting the 43-year-old.

People who may assist in locating the suspect may call the Paphos CID at 26-806042, the Citizen Hotline 1460 or their nearest police station.