A 55-year-old police officer shot his 46-year-old wife four times outside a school in the Zakaki area of Limassol on Tuesday morning before shooting himself. The incident occurred around 6:35am outside Lykeio Agiou Spyridona and was witnessed by a passer-by who intervened moments before the shooting. The woman was rushed to a private hospital and remains intubated in extremely critical condition. Authorities have appealed for blood donations to assist in her treatment.

The officer, who had signed out his service weapon earlier that morning from the Port and Marine Police station, reportedly confronted his wife in a car and threatened the witness before firing. Investigators are examining CCTV footage and probing possible financial disputes as the motive behind the attack. There were no previous complaints or indications of unusual behaviour by the officer, who is a father of three children.

Gender Equality Commissioner Josie Christodoulou described the incident as another tragic case of gender-based violence, emphasizing the need for prevention and protection measures. She expressed solidarity with the victim and her family, underscoring that such violence is a serious violation of human rights and concerns all of society.