Man accused of stealing $3000 from a parked vehicle in north Cyprus

A man accused of stealing cash from a parked vehicle in Taşkınköy has been brought before the court, with police alleging that part of the stolen money was spent at a betting shop.

According to testimony presented in court, the suspect, identified as K.El.C, allegedly committed the theft on 8 August 2025 at around 3:30 p.m. on Şht. Mustafa Mehmet Street. The victim, T.H., a resident of Ozanköy, had reportedly left $3,000 on the front passenger seat of his unlocked vehicle.

Police said security camera footage from the area identified K.El.C as the perpetrator. He was later located near a betting shop, where a search revealed $100 in U.S. currency and 4,030 Turkish lira in his possession. He was arrested under a court-issued warrant.

A subsequent search of his residence, conducted with a court order, led to the discovery of $2,000 hidden under a bin liner in the bathroom trash can. Police said the suspect voluntarily admitted to spending approximately $700 of the stolen money at the betting shop.

The investigation is still at an early stage, with additional security footage to be reviewed and the suspect’s statement to be verified.

The judge ordered the suspect to remain in police custody for three days to allow the investigation to continue.