Student detained for illegal stay in Northern Cyprus set to be deported

Lefkoşa, July 17, 2025 — A Nigerian national has been ordered to remain in police custody for two days after it was discovered that she had been residing illegally in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) since August 5, 2024.

The individual, identified as EM, was brought before the Lefkoşa District Court on Tuesday following a routine immigration check conducted at the Lefkosia Police Headquarters’ Criminal Division on July 15, 2025, around 1:00 p.m.

The police who testified in court, stated that EM had been living in the country without a valid residency permit for nearly a year. The suspect was arrested on the spot, and an investigation into the matter was promptly launched.

During the hearing, the police requested a two-day extension of the suspect's detention, citing the need to complete deportation procedures and necessary administrative correspondence.

The presiding judge granted the request, ordering that the suspect remain in custody for an additional 48 hours as the investigation continues.

Authorities have not yet disclosed when deportation proceedings will be finalized.