Two remanded for living in north Cyprus without permit for 740 and 1,122 days

Two individuals discovered to have lived illegally in north Cyprus for years remanded in police custody.

The individuals, AM and AK, both Nigerian nationals were arrested after it was discovered they had been living illegally in the country, and brought before the Lefkosia District Court on Tuesday December 10.

Police officer who presented the facts of the case in court stated that AM and AK were arrested on December 8, 2024, for "residing without a permit" in the country.

The officer explained that during an immigration check conducted at the Lefkosia Judicial Branch on December 8, it was determined that AM had been residing illegally in the country for a total of 740 days since September 30, 2022, and AK for a total of 1,122 days since November 12, 2021.

The officer stated that the investigation was still in its early stages and that it was necessary to determine whether the suspects had committed any crimes during this period. 

He also noted that there was a possibility the suspects could interfere with the statements to be taken and therefore requested that they remain in custody for three days to ensure the investigation proceeds smoothly.