TRNC Authorities Intervene on Behalf of Homeless Man Living Illegally for 16 Years

A high-profile case is currently unfolding in Northern Cyprus involving Abubakar Usman, a 44-year-old citizen of Ghana who is well-known to many residents of Nicosia.

Usman has lived in the country illegally for nearly 16 years—since 2008, he has been wandering the streets. Recently, he was arrested and sentenced to 20 days in prison.

However, the case took an unexpected turn when, after Usman requested asylum, TRNC authorities amended the Aliens and Immigration Law to allow him to stay on the island.

During a court hearing, it was revealed that Abubakar Usman was found by the Crime Prevention Department of the Nicosia Police on Bedrettin Demirel Street in Nicosia on August 24 at 6:30 PM.

An immigration check determined that Usman had entered the country as a student in 2004. He had been living illegally in the country since 2008, amounting to a total of 5,807 days at the time of his arrest.

According to Usman, he had not worked during this period and had survived on the streets, relying on alms for sustenance. The court ordered that the suspect be held in prison for a period not exceeding 20 days.

Usman’s lawyers stated that they did not oppose the 20-day detention and would use this time to try to obtain legal status for their client.

They also requested that their client undergo a medical examination at the Barış Psychiatric and Neurological Hospital or a full medical examination at a state hospital before being taken into custody.

The lawyers emphasized that the process of obtaining a work permit for Abubakar Usman and his asylum status would be closely monitored. The Refugee Rights Association (MHD) and the Bar Association will also oversee this process.

In response to the situation, authorities amended the Aliens and Immigration Law to allow Abubakar Usman to register. The amendment has already been published in the "Official Gazette" and has come into effect.

According to the decree, which has the force of law, Abubakar Usman will be allowed to remain in the country provided he pays a fine equal to one month's gross minimum wage.