Visa scam: Man accused of defrauding individual of $10,000 to come to north Cypruss

Lapta, Northern Cyprus – A man accused of defrauding an individual of $10,000 by falsely claiming he could legally bring individuals from Turkmenistan to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has been ordered to remain in police custody for three days.

The suspects, BJ, a Turkmen national residing in Lapta, was arrested on May 14, 2025, on suspicion of obtaining money through fraudulent means. 

He appeared before the Kyrenia District Court, where police presented details of the case.

According to the police statement, the suspect allegedly deceived one Narjamal Kerimova, a resident of Alsancak, by claiming he could facilitate the legal entry of four of her friends from Turkmenistan into the TRNC between February and March 2025. Based on these false assurances, Kerimova reportedly handed over a total of $10,000 in cash.

The investigation began following a report made to authorities on May 14. The suspect was identified and taken into custody on the same day under an arrest warrant.

The police emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages and requested that the suspect remain in detention to allow further inquiries. 

After reviewing the evidence presented, the judge approved the police request, ordering that the suspect to remain in custody for an additional three days.

The case remains under investigation.