“If you talk to anyone outside of work I will kill you and pour acid on your face”: Man threatens wife

Değirmenlik, Cyprus (April 30, 2025) – A man accused of threatening to kill his wife and pour acid on her face has been released on bail, sparking renewed concerns about the protection of domestic abuse victims in the region.

The suspect, identified as T.A., was arrested on charges of threat of violence and serious assault after an incident that took place at around 4:00 a.m. on April 29, 2025, at the couple’s home in Değirmenlik.

Police officer who testified in court stated that T.A. physically assaulted his wife by slapping her after accusing her of communicating with other men via WhatsApp. He then allegedly issued a severe threat: “If you talk to anyone outside of work, I will kill you and pour acid on your face.”

Later that same day, a warrant was issued for his arrest. The suspect surrendered at the Değirmenlik Police Station and reportedly acknowledged the charges during a formal case briefing. Police stated that the part of the investigation potentially influenced by the suspect has concluded and requested his release under strict bail conditions.

The presiding judge ruled that T.A. be released on bail with the following restrictions: a ban on leaving the country, mandatory weekly check-ins at a police station, a cash bail of 45,000 Turkish Lira, and two guarantors each signing a bail bond worth 300,000 TL.

Domestic Violence in Northern Cyprus: Legal Framework Under Scrutiny

This case has once again drawn attention to the persistent issue of domestic violence in the Northern Cyprus, where critics argue that legal protections for victims remain inadequate despite existing legislation.

Although the TRNC penal code criminalizes domestic violence and threats of physical harm, women's rights advocates have long pushed for more comprehensive enforcement measures, including better protective services, stricter bail terms, and prompt legal action in abuse cases.

The alleged threat of an acid attack—a form of gender-based violence often associated with long-term trauma and disfigurement—has particularly alarmed activists. Acid attacks are classified as aggravated assault under international human rights law, and in many jurisdictions, they carry heavy prison sentences.

Legal experts warn that conditional bail in such cases may expose victims to further danger if not accompanied by restraining orders or immediate access to shelter and support services.

The trial for T.A. is expected to proceed in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, rights organizations are calling for closer scrutiny of bail decisions in domestic abuse cases, citing the need for a more victim-centered approach in legal proceedings.