Five men accused of terrorism offences connected to an alleged plot targeting Israeli interests in Cyprus were committed for trial on Thursday before the Larnaca criminal court, with proceedings set to begin on October 14.

The defendants, aged 32, 33, 38, 41 and 54, appeared before the Larnaca district court in a closed hearing, where the court ordered that all five remain in custody pending trial.

An application by the lawyer representing the 54-year-old defendant for his release was rejected.

The five face a total of 15 charges including conspiracy to commit a felony, conspiracy to commit murder, participation in a criminal syndicate, terrorism offences and money laundering.

According to the indictment, prosecutors allege the defendants were involved in a Hamas linked terrorist cell and preparations targeting Israeli interests in Cyprus.

The case first emerged in May when police arrested two Palestinian men, aged 32 and 38, during raids near Pentakomo.

Authorities alleged the younger suspect photographed potential targets across Cyprus and obtained chemicals and equipment capable of being used in the manufacture of explosives after allegedly being recruited by a Hamas member.

Investigators further allege the 38-year-old, a physics professor, entered Cyprus illegally and was expected to assemble explosive devices after receiving instructions in Turkey.

A third suspect, a 54-year-old Palestinian with Cypriot citizenship, was later arrested after prosecutors alleged he received parcels containing chemical substances connected to the investigation; he denies any involvement.

Although initially released on bail, that decision was overturned by the court of appeal and he was returned to custody.

The investigation widened further after authorities arrested a fourth suspect, aged 41, in Indonesia before extraditing him to Cyprus last month.

Police have alleged the 41-year-old acted as the network’s “ringleader“, directing members from abroad and issuing instructions relating to the alleged operation.

A fifth defendant, aged 32, was subsequently added to the case after investigators alleged he assisted in arranging travel connected to the suspected network.

According to previous reports, police believe he helped facilitate the movement of one of the principal suspects to Turkey, where investigators allege operational instructions were provided.

The criminal court will hear the case on October 14, when proceedings against all five defendants are due to begin, whereupon until then, they will remain in custody.