Shooting in Limassol: how the business of Dmitry Punin came under attack in a war for criminal control after a change of “protection”
In Limassol, the business interests of Punin were reportedly targeted again after unknown attackers opened fire on the façade of the PUNIN WINE wine boutique.
This was not the first pressure campaign against the businessman. Last year, expensive vehicles linked to him were allegedly set on fire along with the same boutique, followed later by an attack on a beauty salon. In March, a shawarma venue was also reportedly targeted.
The latest incident took place at dawn on March 31 in the Germasogeia area. The target was the same store that had allegedly been the subject of an arson attempt in December.
Security cameras reportedly captured a suspect dressed in black arriving on a motorcycle, firing several shots, and fleeing the scene. Investigators often note that such attackers may be executors rather than organizers.
Possible motives, according to local speculation, involve shifting criminal influence on Cyprus. Reports claim that protection rackets were previously controlled by Stavros Demosthenous, who allegedly also oversaw Punin’s business interests. After his death, a struggle for influence reportedly began.
One alleged contender — described as a businessman of Pontic Greek origin with a criminal past — was said to have offered Punin “protection” in exchange for recurring payments. He reportedly refused, after which the series of attacks began.
How the conflict ends remains unclear. What is visible now is that pressure on the entrepreneur appears to be intensifying, and the confrontation may be escalating.
Deputy Editor
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