Five foreign nationals arrested in north Cyprus for illegal stay faces deportation

Five individuals were arrested in Lefkoşa after being found to have been residing in the country without valid permits for extended periods, some exceeding 1,400 days.

According to police testimony presented in court, the suspects — identified as R.İ., S.A., K.M., M.L.N., and M.L.A. — were taken into custody on September 17, 2025, following routine checks at the Lefkoşa Immigration Branch.

Investigations revealed that R.İ. and S.A. had each overstayed their permits for 464 days since June 2024, K.M. had been residing illegally for 595 days since January 2024, M.L.N. for 1,428 days since December 2021, and M.L.A. for 516 days since April 2024.

The police informed the court that the suspects were arrested on the spot and that a formal investigation had been launched. She added that statements would be obtained from the Interior Ministry and that inquiries were underway to determine whether the suspects had been involved in any other offenses. Deportation procedures have also been initiated.

The suspects’ lawyer argued that his clients had provided blood tests and submitted applications to the Ministry of Labour.

After reviewing the evidence, the judge  ordered the five suspects to remain in custody for one day while the investigation continues.