A shocking broad-daylight assassination in Limassol has claimed the life of Cypriot businessman and former Karmiotissa FC president Stavros Demosthenous, who was shot dead on Friday morning, October 17.

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According to early police reports, Demosthenous was inside his vehicle when he came under fire from an unknown assailant believed to have been riding a motorcycle. The gunman is said to have blocked the victim’s car before opening fire, killing the businessman instantly.

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Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, followed by a crash, as the victim’s vehicle collided with another car during the attack. Police are investigating whether a burning car found nearby on the Limassol highway is connected to the murder, possibly used by the perpetrators in their escape.

Victim’s Son Reportedly in Vehicle but Unharmed

Unconfirmed information suggests that Demosthenous’s 20-year-old son was driving the car at the time of the attack. Despite the terrifying ordeal, the young man was reportedly not injured.

The murder scene has been cordoned off, with strong police presence and forensic teams combing the area for evidence. The Limassol-Troodos highway section between Agia Fyla and Troodos roundabouts has been closed to traffic while investigations continue.

Authorities are treating the case as a targeted killing, and all possible motives—including business or football-related disputes—are being examined.

Police Focus on Possible Links to Organised Crime

Investigators are exploring whether Demosthenous’s killing bears hallmarks of organised crime activity, as the execution-style attack resembles other contract killings seen in Cyprus in recent years.

The Criminal Investigation Department Limassol is leading the probe, with assistance from ballistic experts and the Anti-Organised Crime Unit.

Police are calling for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area to come forward, as they work to piece together the attacker’s escape route and possible accomplices.