Illegal currency exchange busted in Girne: Three women arrested, one broke her legs while fleeing

Girne, Cyprus – June 13, 2025 — Three women have been arrested in Girne for operating an illegal currency exchange from an apartment, with one suspect sustaining serious injuries after jumping from a second-floor balcony in an attempt to evade arrest. 

Authorities also confirmed that the injured individual was residing in the country without legal immigration status.

According to the Police Press Office, the raid was carried out around 2:00 p.m. yesterday (Saturday June 13) by the Financial Crimes Investigation Unit. Officers targeted a residential apartment believed to be operating as an unlicensed exchange bureau.

During the operation, suspects D.U.E. (39) and C.P.I. (22) were found conducting foreign currency transactions without proper authorization. 

A comprehensive search of the premises uncovered: a currency counting machine, 7 laptop computers, 1 tablet, and 12 mobile phones, 2 encrypted devices, numerous documents, large sums of money including 229,400 TL, €2,365, $1,904, £170, €10, 25 Scottish pounds, ₺1,910, and an additional $772 in damaged condition.

While the search was being initiated, a third woman, identified as A.O. (36), noticed the police presence and attempted to escape by leaping from the second floor. She was injured in the fall and was immediately transported to Girne Dr. Akçiçek Hospital, where doctors diagnosed fractures in both legs. A.O. is currently under medical supervision in the Orthopedics Department.

A subsequent immigration check revealed that A.O. had been residing in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) without valid legal status or residency permit.

All three suspects were taken into custody as part of the ongoing investigation. 

Authorities have stated that the case remains open as they assess the full scope of the operation.