Large-scale raids in Northern Cyprus: 28 people detained for illegal residence

According to police, on August 30, 2025, as a result of joint operations by the Lefkoşa and Güzelyurt units, 28 people of various nationalities were detained on suspicion of illegally residing in the TRNC. According to police statements, the detainees had been in the country for periods ranging from 43 to 2101 days; some — for about six years.

The raids took place in the areas of Lefkoşa, Demirhan, Gönyeli, and Güzelyurt. Among those detained were citizens of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Mali, Congo, Kenya, and Liberia. Those named include: Asık Sıkder (Bangladesh) — 736 days, Chukwuebuka Nwankwo (Nigeria) — 640 days, Mohsın Alı (Pakistan) — 582 and 346 days (two records), and the record for the longest illegal stay belongs to Justıka Glaıne Destınelıa Batıssa (Nigeria) — 2101 days.

According to police, some suspects may have been working without permits; through correspondence with the Ministry of Interior, employers and entrepreneurs will be checked for possible liability. Judge Şevket Gazi ruled that the detainees be held in police custody for three days to continue the investigation and verify whether they are linked to other crimes.

What this means for residents: inspections may intensify, employers hiring foreign workers risk checks and sanctions; police recommend verifying workers’ documents and refraining from hiring without official permits.