Charred body of arsonist identified

 

POLICE have identified the charred body found in Alaminos near Larnaca as that of a 49-year-old Romanian arsonist, after analysis of DNA, fingerprints and information from Interpol.

The body had been discovered in a field near the village of Alaminos in the Larnaca district, covered in third degree burns and initial investigations failed to indicate the identity of the man.

A five-hour post-mortem investigation was conducted by state pathologist Eleni Antoniou.

DNA samples from the corpse were sent to the Institute of Neurology and Genetics in order to help the identification process.

A Romanian ID card belonging to the man was found at the scene, although distinctive differences between the ID photo and the autopsy results of the corpse’s face suggested it was a different person.

The post-mortem investigation revealed that the man’s time of death occurred between 24 and 48 hours prior to discovery, while the third degree burns that covered his body occurred before his death. 

Further research of the scene indicated that the corpse was most likely dumped at the field, with the location of the death still unclear.

It is thought that the corpse is connected to the arson of a betting shop, which occurred last Saturday night in Deftera.

“We are optimistic that there will be more developments soon” said police spokesman Michalis Katsounotos this morning.

 

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