Man detained in Northern Cyprus for entering the country through an unofficial port

In Lefke, a 34-year-old man was detained during inspections after officials were unable to find any official record of his entry into the territory of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

According to the police, S.K. was detained on suspicion of committing the offence of “illegal entry into the TRNC through an unauthorized port” and was brought before a court.

During the hearing, a police representative stated that the suspect was identified on 7 February 2026 at around 14:40. As a result of the investigation, it was determined that the man allegedly arrived in the TRNC by sea on 28 October 2024 through an as-yet unidentified unofficial port.

On the same day, a search was conducted at his home in Gemikonagi, however no illegal items were found.

According to the police, the investigation is at an early stage. Law enforcement authorities need to determine:

• whether the suspect is connected to any crimes on the territory of the TRNC,
• whether he is wanted in Turkey,
• as well as the exact circumstances and route of his entry into the country.

It is reported that S.K. presented a student document to the police, claiming that he is studying at the Faculty of Law of the European University of Lefke. The authenticity and validity of this document are currently being verified.

In addition, the police need to review surveillance camera footage and interview a number of witnesses. Due to the need for additional checks and correspondence with the competent authorities, the police applied to the court to keep the suspect in custody.

The court granted the request and ordered that S.K. be held in custody for two days.