Ayia Napa, Cyprus
Photo: Shutterstock
Cyprus detains 12 Israelis after UK woman alleges rape
16-17-year-old teens are arrested in vibrant night life spot for alleged rape of 19-year-old British girl, expected to face custody hearing on Thursday
A Cyprus police official says 12 Israelis have been detained after a 19-year-old British woman alleged that she was raped in the resort town of Ayia Napa.
The police official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he's not authorized to speak publicly about an ongoing investigation, said Tuesday that it's still very early in the investigation and it's unclear how many of the suspects are implicated in the case.
Ayia Napa, Cyprus (Photo: Shutterstock)
The official couldn't say how the suspects knew the woman or whether they had been staying in Ayia Napa together as a group.
It's believed the suspects, all 17-18 years old, will appear in a Famagusta district court on Thursday for a custody hearing.
The Foreign Ministry has confirmed the arrests and the local Israeli envoy has been in touch with the suspects and their families.
Ayia Napa is very popular with younger tourists for its pristine beaches and vibrant night life.
