Debt dispute turns violent in Kanlıköy: One seriously injured, two arrested

Lefkoşa, Cyprus – July 7, 2025 — A dispute over debt in the village of Kanlıköy escalated into a violent altercation on the evening of Saturday, July 6, leaving one man seriously injured and resulting in the arrest of two suspects. 

AH is charged with attempted murder, serious injury, carrying a dangerous weapon, assault while RA is charged with assault, unlawful possession of a knife, serious assault.

According to police reports, the altercation took place around 6:00 PM on Karanlık Street in Kanlıköy. A verbal dispute between AH and MA reportedly spiraled into a knife fight. AH allegedly attacked MA with an unidentified sharp object, inflicting two-centimeter-deep wounds to his right kidney and hip area. Authorities are treating the act as attempted murder and serious bodily harm.

RA, who was also present at the scene, is accused of injuring MA on his left arm, chest, and torso. He allegedly struck AH on the head with a beer bottle and then stabbed him in the back of the right thigh with a sharp object. These actions are being investigated under charges of unlawful possession of a knife, serious assault, and bodily harm.

Hospitalized Victim, Discharged Suspects

Police confirmed that the injured victim, MA, is currently under medical observation in the Urology Unit at Lefkoşa State Hospital. Though he suffered serious injuries, his condition is not considered life-threatening. Both suspects received initial medical treatment for minor injuries and were subsequently discharged.

The police testified in court that the suspects’ clothing had been seized as evidence. Investigators are currently reviewing surveillance footage and collecting witness statements. One more item of evidence is reportedly still being sought.

Due to concerns that the suspects could interfere with the ongoing investigation if released, police requested additional time for detention.

After reviewing the testimony and evidence presented, the judge ordered that both suspects be remanded in police custody for an additional three days to allow for the continuation of the investigation.

The incident underscores the potential dangers of unresolved personal disputes and the growing concern over weapons-related violence in the region. Police urge the public to seek legal mediation in financial disagreements rather than resorting to violence.