AI-powered cameras are being deployed "in north Cyprus

A new era in traffic enforcement is about to begin in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), as the country prepares to activate a nationwide network of AI-powered smart traffic cameras by mid-August.

Designed to improve road safety and support public security, the system will automatically detect a wide range of violations in real time—from speeding and running red lights to not wearing seat belts and using mobile phones while driving.

According to Traffic Department Director Ahmet Aydın, the camera installations have been completed and are currently undergoing final testing. Once operational, the system will be capable of identifying not just speed violations but also behaviors such as smoking while driving, illegal lane changes, turning without signaling, and driving without required documents such as registration, inspection, or insurance.

“Our goal isn’t to punish drivers, but to reduce traffic accidents, injuries, fatalities, and property damage,” Aydın told Turkish Agency Cyprus (TAK).

Real-Time Detection, Broader Scope

Unlike previous systems, the new generation of cameras will be able to enforce traffic laws even in areas without MOBESE surveillance. Through advanced license plate recognition, the system will also assist law enforcement in quickly responding to criminal incidents by identifying vehicle routes in real time.

Additionally, the cameras will flag vehicles with expired or missing documents, enabling authorities to issue fines without direct police intervention.

150 Cameras Provided as a Grant from Turkey

The project is being implemented under the 2023 Economic and Financial Cooperation Protocol signed between the TRNC and the Republic of Turkey. Aydın confirmed that a total of 150 cameras—130 fixed and 20 mobile—were donated as part of the agreement.

The mobile cameras, which can be mounted on vehicles or tripods, will be operated by the Police General Directorate.

“Warning signs will still accompany both fixed and mobile cameras, just as before,” Aydın added.