Police stations in Northern Cyprus

When traveling to Northern Cyprus, it is useful to understand how the police operate here — even if you do not plan to interact with them. Generally, local law enforcement does not bother tourists too much, but knowing the basic rules and nuances of interaction is never superfluous. Also, depending on the locality, the frequency of checks may vary. For example, in Iskele and Famagusta, the police are much stricter than in Kyrenia and its surroundings. Police in these cities are on duty around the clock and conduct inspections.

If you decide to travel by car, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules. They are very similar to European ones, but there are differences such as: left-hand driving, speed limits (50 km/h in the city, outside the city – 80–100 km/h, on highways – 100–120 km/h), allowable blood alcohol content – 0.49‰, etc. (if there is an article about traffic rules, you can provide a link). Do not forget that violations of traffic rules carry fines, and they are not small!

The police system of Northern Cyprus is largely similar to the Turkish one: the same structures, similar procedures, but adjusted for the island mentality. Formally, laws are observed, but in practice, the police often turn a blind eye to minor violations – if, of course, they do not cause problems for others.

What does the police do in Northern Cyprus?

• Patrols the streets – especially in tourist areas like Kyrenia (Girne) or Famagusta.
• Controls road traffic – they may stop you for speeding or not wearing a seatbelt; also, remember the left-hand traffic.
• Investigates offenses – although the effectiveness of investigations depends on the situation.
• Assists tourists – in major cities, there is tourist police who speak English.

What should tourists keep in mind?

• Police rarely behave aggressively but can be persistent if they see an obvious violation. If the violation is clear (speeding, no seatbelt, alcohol), arguing will only hurt. They may add fines or open a case. It is better to comply and sort things out later.
• In summer, officers often check drivers for alcohol intoxication; it is advisable not to consume alcohol if you plan to drive.
• When stopped, politely show your documents (passport or driving license).
• In serious cases (accidents, theft), it is better to immediately contact the police station – without a protocol, insurance may refuse to pay out.
• Do not give bribes or try to "negotiate" — it is criminally punishable.
  
  If you need help, call 155 (police) or 112 (emergency services). Overall, the system works predictably, and if basic rules are followed, problems should not arise.
  
  

Important to know

• Minor violations are often resolved on the spot with a fine
• Serious cases require a lawyer's involvement
• Protocols are written in Turkish – request a translation

Remember: politeness and knowledge of your rights are the best protection. For complex situations, it is better to immediately contact professional lawyers who are well-versed in local legal specifics.

• Main Police Department of the TRNC
• Police Department and Stations in Nicosia
• Police Department and Stations in Famagusta
• Police Department and Stations in Girne
• Police Department and Stations in Güzelyurt
• Police Department and Stations in İskele

Main Directorate of Police of TRNC

Operates in the field of document processing and addresses issues at the federal level.

• Phones: +90 392 228 3411, +90 548 811 2000

Nicosia Police Department

Nicosia Police Department or Lefkoşa Polis Müdürlüğü. This police station serves the Nicosia area.

• Phones: +90 392 228 3311, +90 548 811 3000

Police Stations in Nicosia District

Alayköy Police Station (Alayköy Polis Karakolu)

• Phone: +90 392 235 7333

Demirhan Police Station (Demirhan Polis Karakolu)

• Phones: +90 392 232 4010, +90 548 811 3774

Gönyeli Police Station (Gönyeli Polis Karakolu)

• Phones: +90 392 224 1048, +90 392 224 1049

Famagusta Police Department

Famagusta Police Department or Gazimağusa Polis Müdürlüğü. This police station serves the Famagusta area.

• Phones: +90 392 366 5310, +90 548 811 4000

Police Stations in Famagusta District

Dörtyol Police Station (Dörtyol Polis Karakolu)

• Phones: +90 392 384 2229, +90 548 811 4754

Beyarmudu Police Station (Beyarmudu Polis Karakolu)

• Phone: +90 548 811 4150

Geçitkale Police Station (Geçitkale Polis Karakolu)

• Phones: +90 392 373 3416, +90 548 811 4761

Tatlısu Police Station (Tatlısu Polis Karakolu)

• Phones: +90 392 389 2102, +90 548 811 4774

Girne Police Department

Girne Police Department or Girne Polis Müdürlüğü. This station serves the Girne district.

• Phones: +90 392 815 2125, +90 548 811 5000

Police Stations in Girne District

Lapta Police Station (Lapta Polis Karakolu)

• Phones: +90 392 821 8512, +90 548 811 5754

Esentepe Police Station (Esentepe Polis Karakolu)

• Phones: +90 392 823 6322, +90 548 811 5764

Çamlıbel Police Station (Çamlıbel Polis Karakolu)

• Phones: +90 392 721 3319, +90 548 811 5774

Boğaz Police Station (Boğaz Polis Karakolu)

• Phones: +90 392 234 6322, +90 548 811 5784

Guzelyurt Police Department

Guzelyurt Police Department or Güzelyurt Polis Müdürlüğü. This station serves the Guzelyurt district.

• Phones: +90 392 714 2140, +90 548 811 6000

Police Stations in Guzelyurt District

Lefke Police Station (Lefke Polis Karakolu)

• Phones: +90 392 728 7424, +90 548 811 6754

Iskele Police Department

Iskele Police Department or İskele Polis Müdürlüğü. This station serves the Iskele district.

• Phones: +90 392 371 2333, +90 548 811 7000

Police Stations in Iskele District

Ziyamet Police Station (Ziyamet Polis Karakolu)

• Phones: +90 392 381 2324, +90 548 811 7754

Dipkarpaz Police Station (Dipkarpaz Polis Karakolu)

• Phones: +90 392 372 2344, +90 548 811 7764