Police investigating arson outside presidential guard’s house (Updated)

Police on Tuesday were investigating a case of car arson against a police officer which broke out in Limassol overnight.

The fires broke out shortly before midnight in two cars parked next to each other, outside the home of the officer who is a member of the presidential guard.

One of the cars had been driven by him in recent days, but he does not own them.

Police reported the vehicles were being driven by a 54-year-old and a 40-year-old.

Police and fire fighters gathered evidence at the scene and determined that the fire was set maliciously with use of flammable material.

Responding to observations that one of the vehicles belonged to a member of the presidential guard, Limassol police director Andreas Angelides said that, at this stage, nothing can be ruled out, but that preliminary examinations point to a malicious act.

“We are evaluating data and taking statements. We are just at the beginning of the investigation,” he said.

“What matters to us is to have a clear picture as soon as possible, including testimonies and documented evidence, regarding the motives of the criminal activity.

Angelides also admitted that tackling arson cases where vehicles or properties are targeting is often an arduous task.

“Many times, the victims cannot provide information that would aid the authorities,” Angelides said.

“There is certainly a degree of difficulty in investigating a case such as this one,” he added.

“The statements of the victims are crucial for the progress of the investigation, bearing in mind that in these cases, action must be taken promptly.”