Five Bangladeshi nationals found living illegally in north Cyprus, arrested in police operation

Lefkoşa – A police raid on an apartment in Lefkoşa uncovered five Bangladeshi nationals residing illegally in the country. 

They were arrested and brought before court, while 24 others found at the premises were confirmed to have valid residency status.

Police testified in court that the operation took place at around 19:00 on September 21, 2025, at an apartment located on Bedreddin Demirel Avenue. The search was carried out by officers from the Lefkoşa Police Directorate’s Criminal Division and Special Operations Unit under the authority of a court warrant.

During the raid, authorities identified five individuals who had been residing without permission for extended periods: S.R. (38), overstaying for 540 days since March 30, 2024, S.D. (33), overstaying for 375 days since September 11, 2024, M.R. (32), overstaying for 37 days since August 15, 2025, M.D.R. (37), overstaying for 18 days since August 4, 2025, S.H. (24), overstaying for 750 days since August 3, 2023.

Police confirmed that the remaining 24 Bangladeshi nationals present in the apartment held legal status.

The court was informed that deportation procedures have already been initiated for the five suspects. Police requested additional time to complete the investigation.

All five individuals were ordered to remain in custody for three days while legal proceedings continue.