Foreigner from TRNC Caught Smuggling Goods from South to North

A foreign national is currently facing trial in Northern Cyprus for attempting to transport goods from the Republic of Cyprus to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The man was apprehended at the Metehan border checkpoint, where authorities found him in possession of 20 kg of meat, 40 kg of fish, and various other supplies.

The detainee appeared before the Nicosia District Court the day following his arrest. During the hearing, a police representative stated that the defendant, Mahmoud Khalid, was arrested on September 22, 2024, at 10:35 AM while crossing the border between the Republic of Cyprus and the TRNC at the Metehan checkpoint.

Upon searching the suspect's vehicle, authorities discovered 20 kg of veal, 40 kg of fish, 24 jars of mustard oil (500 ml each), 24 packages of breakfast cereals, 48 packages of turmeric, and 24 packages of chili pepper. All of these items were being transported across the border without the necessary permits.

On the same day, the suspect was detained for further investigation. Police indicated that the defendant is both a foreigner and a citizen of the TRNC, having resided in Northern Cyprus for 19 years.

Taking into account witness testimonies, the judge has prohibited the suspect from leaving the country until the trial concludes. The court has ordered that he be tried without detention, on the condition that he pays a cash bond of 20,000 Turkish Lira and that two guarantors sign guarantees of 200,000 Turkish Lira each. Until the trial, the defendant must report to the police once a week.