Arson suspect detained in Paphos after police chase

Paphos police have detained a 25-year-old man suspected of committing several arsons that have occurred in various parts of the region in recent days. According to law enforcement agencies, the suspect was spotted near a barbershop in the Chlorakas area at the moment he was allegedly setting fire to the exterior of the building using a flammable substance.

Following the attempted detention, the man tried to flee in a car. Police began a pursuit, during which at least two collisions occurred between the suspect's vehicle and official police cars. Eventually, the vehicle was stopped on Embas Avenue, where the man was caught red-handed and taken into custody.

Investigators believe that the detainee may be linked to at least three more arson cases under investigation in Paphos. These involve a fire at a cafe on May 2, the arson of a mini-market in Geroskipou on May 4, and a vehicle arson on May 5, 2026. All incidents occurred within the Paphos province.

Following the detention, authorities decided to send the suspect for a psychiatric evaluation. Police are continuing their investigation and checking the man's possible involvement in other similar crimes in the region.