Two Traffic Accidents in Northern Cyprus: Two Drivers Charged with Drunk Driving, One Driver Fled the Scene

Yesterday, two separate traffic accidents occurred in Lefkoşa and on the Famagusta–İskele highway; in both cases, the police reported drunk driving and filed charges against the drivers. One participant in the first accident fled the scene.

According to the police, in Lefkoşa around 21:00, driver Mehmet Avşar (24) under the influence of alcohol (measured at 98 milligrams) entered Dr. Fazıl Küçük Boulevard without yielding and collided with a vehicle bearing license plate UK 440. There were no injuries. The driver of vehicle UK 440 left the scene without providing a name or address. A criminal case was initiated against Mehmet Avşar for drunk driving and causing a traffic accident.

On the Famagusta–İskele highway around 15:30, driver İbrahim Diran (31), with a blood alcohol level of 140 milligrams, rear-ended vehicle RZ 427, driven by Olgun Sönmez (22), at the St. Barnabas roundabout. Diran was injured, taken to Famagusta State Hospital, and discharged after treatment. An investigation has also been opened against him under the same charges.

According to police, legal proceedings are ongoing for both incidents. Residents should note: driving under the influence carries criminal and administrative liability, and in the event of a collision, participants who leave the scene may be sought.