Man with history of violence assaults girlfriend over prayer dispute in north Cyprus

Serhatköy, TRNC — A 33-year-old man, has been arrested and brought before the Güzelyurt District Court after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend in a public park in Serhatköy.

The incident reportedly occurred during a dispute over the victim’s failure to pray, resulting in serious injury.

According to police testimony, the incident took place around 10:00 PM in a playground, when the suspect identified as ETK and his girlfriend were engaged in a heated argument. During the confrontation, ETK allegedly grabbed the woman by her shoulders with both hands and threw her to the ground. The impact caused the victim’s right ankle to twist and break.

The police stated that the assault was reported on May 23, 2025, and ETK was arrested shortly after. Authorities confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with further witness statements and surveillance footage yet to be reviewed. 

In court, the police requested an additional one-day detention to continue their inquiries—a request granted by the court.

Repeat Offender with a Violent Past

The suspects arrest has drawn renewed attention to his history of violent behavior, particularly against women. Court records and police statements reveal that he has been detained on multiple occasions for similar offenses.

In 2023, the suspect was arrested in Lefkosia after threatening an ex-girlfriend, causing a public disturbance, and committing intentional property damage. He was released on bail in that case.

Additionally, police confirmed that on December 25, 2022, the suspect committed offenses including assault, trespassing, and intentional damage against the same ex-partner. He was again released on bail following those charges.

The police testified that the suspect was involved in another incident on September 26, 2023. During that altercation, the suspect allegedly attempted to force his way into the home of his former partner in Lefkosia and threatened her under the pretense of reconciliation, resulting in charges of threatening violence and causing general disturbance.

Ambulance Hijacking and Death Threats

The suspect has also been linked to a previous high-profile incident involving an ambulance hijacking. Under the false pretense of illness, the suspect called for emergency medical assistance and, upon the arrival of paramedics, allegedly assaulted the medical personnel and issued death threats. He reportedly fled the scene in the ambulance and later livestreamed a video on Facebook claiming his family had poisoned him.

In a separate threat, the suspect allegedly contacted the emergency room at Dr. Burhan Nalbantoğlu State Hospital and said, “I’m coming to kill you.”

As a result of these escalating behaviors, the suspect was placed under psychiatric observation at the Lefkoşa Barış Psychiatric Hospital. A statement from the Police Press Office confirmed that he is currently undergoing a mental health evaluation at the facility.

The investigation into the most recent assault remains ongoing. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether additional charges will be filed or if further psychiatric assessment will be requested.