Over 1kg of drugs seized in Ortaköy operation; Suspect remanded in custody

A police operation in Ortaköy north Cyprus has led to the seizure of over one kilogram of narcotics, along with cash, a precision scale, and other items. 

The suspect identified as ÇA, a Turkish national, who was arrested during the operation, has denied all charges.

The case was brought before the Lefkoşa District Court, where the police testified regarding that on August 13, police received intelligence about drugs being stored in a vehicle parked beneath eucalyptus trees in Ortaköy. This information triggered the launch of “Operation Bin.”

According to the police testimony, on August 14, the suspect arrived at the scene and opened the vehicle. While he was inside, allegedly tampering with items, police officers intervened. CA reportedly locked the car in an attempt to flee but was apprehended shortly afterward.

A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered over one kilogram of various narcotics, a precision scale, TRY 3,215, EUR 640, and a glass jar. Police stated that the suspect refused to provide the passcode to his phone and denied the charges during questioning.

Investigators confirmed that the seized substances have been sent for laboratory analysis, while forensic testing on plastic wrappings and further inquiries, including reviewing CCTV footage and taking witness statements, are ongoing.

The police requested a seven-day extension of custody to continue their investigation. After considering the testimony, the judge ordered the suspect to remain in detention for an additional seven days.