Man arrested at Ercan Airport for visa scam

A man accused of defrauding a person with an outstanding visa fine by falsely promising to include them in a so-called “visa amnesty” has been arrested at Ercan Airport while attempting to leave the country.

According to a statement from the Police Press Office, 49-year-old H.E. allegedly told a person who had incurred a visa penalty during 2024 that he could secure their inclusion in an amnesty program, thereby canceling their fine. Under this false pretense, H.E. reportedly obtained 696 euros and 9,750 Turkish lira from the victim.

After police became aware of the incident, an investigation was launched, leading to H.E.’s identification and arrest on July 2, 2025, at Ercan Airport as he tried to depart the country.

The investigation is ongoing.