The detention of Greek Cypriots held in the occupied north has been extended by eight more days, following a decision by the so-called ‘court’ in Trikomo. The five men, who were arrested on 17 July, continue to be held under what is widely condemned as an illegal and politically motivated process.
During today’s hearing, the occupying regime’s ‘police’ claimed the men entered the north via Strovilia in a vehicle, and alleged that one of them failed to pass through ‘passport control.’ They were later found walking in Galateia, reportedly carrying a blue folder- the contents of which allegedly included personal notes and property data relating to construction company directors and title deeds belonging to 14 Turkish Cypriots. Four individuals have reportedly filed complaints.
The detention of Greek Cypriots has drawn strong criticism. Their lawyer, Salih Can Doratli, condemned the extension request as “disgraceful” and in violation of the European Convention on Human Rights. He argued that all five men presented valid ID upon entry, with no visual evidence proving otherwise. He also questioned the legal basis for being arrested for simply carrying a blue folder.
Doratli demanded clarification on the alleged “personal data”, asking whether the documents in question were official or simply handwritten notes. The ‘police’ refused to answer.
He further stressed that at least two of the detainees face no specific allegations beyond being in the same vehicle. Some of the men had already submitted applications to the north’s Immovable Property Commission, meaning the documents they held may have been publicly accessible.
The pseudo-court approved a request for three of the detainees to be examined by a doctor. UN peacekeeping officers (UNFICYP) and family members were present during the proceedings.
The initial reports from Turkish and Turkish Cypriot media alleged that the men had been mapping or surveying land in the Trikomo area. No formal charges have been issued.
Also read: 5 refugees from Trikomo “arrested” in the occupied areas – Nicosia’s response
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel.
