Three suspects caught in illegal arms operation in Lefkoşa

Lefkoşa, Cyprus (August 1, 2025) — Three suspects were brought before the Lefkoşa District Court on Friday August 1 after being caught in the act during an illegal firearm handover on the Kuzey Çevre Yolu (Northern Bypass). 

The suspects identified as HCA, 27, MA, 19 and MSA, 26 who are all Turkish nationals were arrested with multiple firearms and ammunition.

According to police report, the arrest took place around 8:00 PM on July 31, 2025 when HCA allegedly left a Kaçkar ARX-3 9mm pistol with a magazine containing five MKE 23 9P cartridges at the root of a tree, which was later retrieved by SA and MSA using a vehicle with registration number JR 736. The suspects were immediately apprehended in a sting operation.

HCA was also arrested the same evening under a court order. A subsequent court-approved search of the residence of SA and MSA who are siblings revealed a hidden stash of weapons and ammunition. Police discovered: one Retay 9mm pistol with an attached magazine, nine 7.65mm bullets loaded in the magazine, 225 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 150 rounds of 7.65mm ammunition, all concealed behind a plastic panel under kitchen cabinets.

The police informed the court that HCA provided a voluntary statement that included a confession. He emphasized that further testimonies need to be collected, and HCA's statement must be verified for accuracy.

He also noted that forensic analysis of the seized weapons and ammunition is necessary, along with a digital examination of all suspects' mobile phones. "This is a serious offense falling under the jurisdiction of the high criminal court," the officer said. "In recent times, such crimes have become increasingly common and are a source of public concern."

Highlighting the early stage of the investigation, the police requested a three-day remand for all three suspects. 

The judge ordered the suspects to remain in custody for 72 hours while the investigation continues.