Cyprus police arrest suspect after Bulgarian woman goes missing
Olga Vassilieva was last seen in Limassol on October 23, with police probing murder and a financial motive.
Cyprus police are investigating the disappearance of 61-year-old Bulgarian woman Olga Vassilieva, last seen on October 23 in Limassol, after arresting a suspect on the island.
Authorities detained a 43-year-old Syrian man at Larnaca airport on October 30, shortly before he was due to leave Cyprus. Investigators are checking versions including a serious violent crime and a possible financial motive.
Local media reported the suspect and the missing woman were in an intimate relationship. During questioning, he gave different accounts of what happened but denied any connection to her disappearance.
Police said they have statements from witnesses and recordings from security cameras that raise suspicions. One witness claimed they heard a cry for help near the man’s home. Video from the area shows a car reversing into the property, after which a bulky item was placed in the vehicle’s trunk, though its origin and contents have not been established.
Investigators are also probing whether the case involves an attempted financial scam. During the interview, the man admitted trying to swindle Vassilieva with between 15,000 and 20,000 euros. The scheme was allegedly linked to selling counterfeit jewellery accompanied by a forged certificate.
A court later ordered the suspect to remain in custody for a further six days, according to reporting by Bgonair. The initial investigation was opened on suspicion of intentional murder and was expanded to include the possibility of kidnapping for a serious offence. Police say Vassilieva’s whereabouts remain unknown and the search and evidence collection are ongoing.
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Source:
Bgonair