Seven individuals arrested for residing illegally in TRNC to remain in custody for three days

Lefkoşa, July 7, 2025 – Seven foreign nationals found to have been residing illegally in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) were arrested and brought before the court on Sunday. 

According to police testimony in court, the arrests were made on July 6, 2025, between 17:00 and 17:30 during an immigration and identity check conducted by a police unit on Girne Avenue in Lefkoşa.

The investigation revealed that: the suspects, SM had been residing illegally for 314 days since August 26, 2024, SR for 484 days since December 12, 2023, EH for 228 days since November 20, 2024, AR (number of days unspecified) since December 14, 2023, IH, for 986 days since March 7, 2022, MHM, for 270 days since October 9, 2024 and MH for 706 days since July 31, 2023.

The individuals were arrested on the spot, and a criminal investigation was initiated. Police stated that deportation procedures will be pursued for all suspects and requested an additional three-day detention period to continue investigations.

During the hearing, the suspects claimed that their employers had failed to obtain the necessary work permits for them.

The judge ruled in favor of the police request, ordering the suspects to remain in custody for three more days. The judge also authorized an investigation into the employers involved, noting that further legal action would be taken if any offenses were uncovered.