Large-Scale Checks Across Northern Cyprus: 47 Detained and Nearly 2,000 Violations

Police conducted large-scale simultaneous checks across Northern Cyprus with the participation of special forces units and the department for combating drugs and smuggling.

Proceedings were initiated against 1,956 people during the checks, and 47 people were detained.

The checks were carried out at entertainment venues, establishments selling alcohol, nightclubs, cafés, betting shops, places where large numbers of people gather, as well as on the roads.

As part of the public order checks, 46 people were detained for being in the country without a valid residence permit.

In addition, during a search of one of the vehicles, officers found approximately 2 grams of cannabis, a glass pipe with traces of narcotic substances, a grinder and 28 tablets classified as “green prescription” medicines. One more person was detained in connection with this.

In addition, 148 people were found inside casinos despite being banned from visiting them. Administrative procedures were initiated against them and fines were imposed.

Road checks

During road checks, police stopped 8,437 drivers. A total of 1,808 people were held accountable for various violations, and 147 vehicles were taken off the road.

Speeding was the most common violation, recorded among 559 drivers.

In addition, officers identified:
— 32 drivers operating vehicles while under the influence of alcohol;
— 13 people without driving licences and insurance;
— 83 drivers without insurance;
— 81 people not wearing seat belts;
— 11 drivers using a phone while driving.

Police also recorded violations related to the absence of road permits, failure to undergo technical inspections, breaches of road sign rules, running red lights, dangerous driving, using motorcycles without protective helmets and other violations.

Police stated that public order and traffic checks across Northern Cyprus would continue on a regular basis.