Sharp Rise in Criminal Cases in Northern Cyprus

In 2024, Northern Cyprus has experienced a dramatic increase in the number of criminal cases. Since the beginning of the year, approximately 48,000 cases have been registered across the TRNC, compared to around 30,000 in the previous year.

This marks a rise of roughly 18,000 cases year-on-year, according to data from the TRNC Chief Prosecutor’s Office.

Experts attribute this surge in crime to a combination of factors, including economic hardship, unemployment, worsening social issues, a growing uncontrolled population, and challenges in law enforcement oversight.

The rising number of cases has also drawn attention to the current state of the police force. Reports suggest that the police are functioning with only 70% of their personnel capacity, while their budgetary resources are steadily shrinking.

Last week, the Republic Assembly’s Committee on Economy, Finance, Budget, and Planning approved a budget allocation of 6.3 billion Turkish Lira for the Police Directorate General.