Four Turkish Businessmen Wanted for Alleged Seizure of Greek Cypriot Land in Northern Cyprus

Authorities in the Republic of Cyprus have issued international arrest warrants for four Turkish businessmen accused of illegally developing property in the village of Lefkoniko (Geçitkale), located in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The land in question reportedly belongs to displaced Greek Cypriots.

According to local media citing Pieris Gypsiotis, the Greek Cypriot mayor of Lefkoniko, the municipality has gathered and submitted evidence showing that land was unlawfully taken in several parts of the village. The area is now home to what he described as a “massive construction project” consisting of a ten-story building with 750 apartments.

“This is the first development, and it’s expected to be completed and handed over in the coming months. There are already signs of additional projects starting outside Lefkoniko,” Gypsiotis said. He explained that he reported the construction to the Nicosia Tax Department and handed over all relevant documentation. An investigation revealed the involvement of Turkish companies.

Gypsiotis stated that he was able to identify the owners of the companies involved and submitted their names to the authorities. As a result, four Turkish nationals are now subject to international arrest warrants. If they travel within the European Union, they are expected to be detained and extradited to Cyprus for trial.

The alleged land seizure reportedly took place four months ago. A symposium held last Saturday, attended by negotiators and legal experts, included presentations and an in-depth analysis of the case.

The mayor also expressed his satisfaction with a recent court ruling that found two Hungarian nationals guilty of promoting real estate in the TRNC.

“We’re not going to solve the Cyprus issue alone, but this sends a strong message and creates fear among investors, buyers, and brokers,” Gypsiotis added.