Authorities in the Republic of Cyprus are working to secure the release of a Greek Cypriot man held in the occupied north. The detention stems from an alleged breach of a prohibited military zone, according to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA).
Incident near Gerolakkos buffer zone
The man had been gathering wild greens near the buffer zone in the Gerolakkos area and has been in custody since Tuesday. CNA reports that efforts are underway to ensure his release as quickly as possible.
Charges and court proceedings
Turkish Cypriot media report that the man was initially brought before a “military court” on charges of entering a “military zone”. He later appeared before a court in occupied Nicosia on suspicion of “illegal transport and possession of explosives”.
Authorities reportedly found 16 hunting cartridges (12-gauge) in his vehicle, originating from government-controlled areas. The “police” requested that he be remanded in custody as a guarantee for his future court appearance.
He has been ordered to remain in “central prisons” in the occupied areas for up to four days pending the completion of the investigation.
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