About 50 Nigerians arrested in TRNC over alleged prostitution, drug trafficking and illegal clubbing

About 50 Nigerian nationals living in North Cyprus were last week arrested by Turkish Cypriot police for illegal clubbing, public disturbance, alleged prostitution and drug trafficking in Hamitköy, Lefkosa.

According to a report by a Nigerian news site, Within Nigeria, no fewer than 50 Nigerian nationals were arrested by the police in a three-bedroom apartment located in Hamitköy.

The rented apartment supposedly occupied by three Nigerian women were reportedly used for some other purpose too. 

Citizens who spoke on the issue said nobody knew the number of people living in most apartments rented by some people in some areas across the country.

It was reported that, neighbors who had reported the issue to the police about ‘prostitution and drugs’ said that they had been unable to sleep for months as a result of noise that emanated from the three bedroom apartment.

On Thursday, March, 16, an incident took place in Hamitköy with loud noises coming out from the apartment rented by three Nigerian women. Police had to intervene leading to the arrest of more than 50 Nigerians in the flat.

It was reported that the apartment was reportedly turned into a club. 

According to report, in the last two years, the number of Africans entering the TRNC has exceeded 97,000.

Official statistics of the TRNC Ministry of Tourism states that there is a remarkable increase in the number of Africans entering Northern Cyprus. While the number of Africans who came to the country in 2021, mostly Nigerians, was 39,000, the figure increased to 58,000 in 2022.

However, in the last two years, the number of Africans entering the TRNC for studies exceeded 97,000.

There are currently 22 universities operating in North Cyprus.

It was reported that Africans who started to work in different business lines after enrolling in any university in the country, ranked first including crimes, drugs, violence, and theft.

It has been reported the crime rates by foreigners has increased in the TRNC most of which is as a result of agents who lure Africans to North Cyprus to enroll in universities with the promise of working to help pay for their studies and upkeep. Those unable to pay the fees and accommodation turn to crime, sell drugs or turn to prostitution.

Within Nigeria, LGC News