Two men arrested over the use of fake currency and deceptive theft cases in Girne and Gazimağusa

Girne/Gazimağusa, July 17, 2025 — Police have arrested three young men in two separate incidents involving fraud and theft through the use of 100 US Dollar banknotes, highlighting growing concerns over currency-related deception in Northern Cyprus.

In Girne, two suspects, identified only by their initials S.K. (20) and A.G. (18), were arrested after allegedly defrauding a fuel station on Karaoğlanoğlu Street on the night of Wednesday, July 16, at around 11:45 p.m.

According to police reports, the suspects entered the convenience store of a petrol station as customers and purchased food and drinks worth 330 TL. They placed a 100 USD bill on the counter, then deceitfully retrieved the same note while also taking 3,645 TL in cash as supposed change. The pair then proceeded to use the cash to fuel their vehicle and quickly left the scene.

An investigation was launched after the incident was reported to authorities. Surveillance footage and further inquiries led to the identification and arrest of both individuals.

Meanwhile, in Gazimağusa, on July 13, a separate fraud case was reported involving an individual identified as A.O.J.H. (18). Police say the suspect knowingly attempted to exchange a counterfeit 100 USD note, receiving 4,000 TL in return from another individual.

Authorities confirmed that the suspect was aware of the bill’s invalidity and obtained the funds through fraudulent means. He has since been taken into custody.

Law enforcement officials have reiterated warnings to businesses and the public to carefully inspect foreign currency and report any suspicious transactions immediately. Both cases remain under investigation.