Interpol murder suspect arrested in Northern Cyprus

A 43-year-old Russian national, identified as A. S., has been arrested in the Esentepe region of Northern Cyprus. The suspect is a primary person of interest in the murder of Vangelis Zampounis, which occurred during a shooting at a gas station in the Neos Kosmos district of Athens.

According to police testimony, A. S. had been residing in Northern Cyprus without a permit for 389 days. Investigations revealed that the suspect had illegally entered a first-degree military restricted zone near Ercan Airport to cross into Southern Cyprus and had later used the same route to re-enter Northern Cyprus in July 2026.

The suspect faces several charges, including violating a first-degree military restricted zone, illegal entry, leaving Northern Cyprus territory without authorization, and residing without a permit. While the immediate charges relate to these border and residency violations, authorities are investigating the suspect's purpose for being in the country and any potential involvement in other crimes. A judge has ordered the suspect to be held in police custody for three days to facilitate the ongoing investigation.