Two Taxi Drivers Arrested in Connection with Shooting at Princess Nightclub

Two taxi drivers have been arrested in connection with an armed attack on the Princess nightclub in Alayköy. Authorities believe one of the drivers transported the shooter to the scene, while the other later drove him to the airport.

According to a police statement, the taxi drivers have been charged with illegal possession and storage of firearms and explosives, as well as firing shots in a residential area. The suspects were brought before the district court earlier today.

During the court hearing, a police officer testified that on December 22, 2024, around 8:00 PM, four shots were fired at the main entrance of the Princess nightclub in Alayköy. During the investigation, three 9mm shell casings were found approximately 60 meters from the crime scene.

Furthermore, about 500 meters from the nightclub, police discovered a Glock pistol buried in the ground, along with two 9mm rounds, a magazine, and seven 9mm MKE-brand bullets. A green coat was also found 700 meters from the scene and has been added to the case file.

After reviewing security camera footage, it was revealed that the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle, which then drove to the airport.

The driver of the vehicle used by the suspect was located and arrested in Gönyeli. The second taxi driver had previously transported the suspected shooter from the "Emperor" nightclub to a hotel in Kyrenia, where he is believed to have stayed, and then drove him to the Princess nightclub, where the shooting occurred.

Police are currently investigating whether the taxi drivers were involved in the attack. To assist with the investigation, the suspects have been held in custody for three days, a decision the judge approved.

It’s important to note that the attack on the nightclub in Alayköy took place late on Sunday evening. The assailants fired multiple shots into the nightclub before fleeing the scene.

Earlier reports indicated that the suspect had arrived on the island from Turkey using a false identity.