A Turkish citizen of Kurdish origin was released from custody in Cyprus on 22 August after Turkey failed to provide documentation supporting his extradition despite issuing an Interpol red notice for terrorism-related charges.
The man, who had lived in the occupied north for 24 years, was arrested on 26 July at the Deryneia checkpoint whilst travelling from the areas controlled by the Republic. Police discovered an active Interpol red notice during routine checks.
Turkey had issued the red notice but did not send required documentation to Cypriot authorities, as it does not recognise the Republic of Cyprus. The court ordered his release following Turkey’s failure to respond to arrest notifications.
Court orders release after Turkey provides no extradition papers
According to court documents, Turkey accuses the man of transferring money to what it designates as the terrorist organisation PKK/KCK and participating in financial transactions supporting the group under orders from superiors.
The man’s lawyer, Laris Vrahimis, stated his client had never committed the alleged crimes, had worked as a construction worker and had two minor children. He argued there was no flight risk as his client knew he would face trial if he returned to Turkey.
Despite these arguments, the court initially ordered detention until 22 August. When Turkey provided no extradition documentation by the deadline, authorities released the suspect.
Suspect applies for political asylum following detention
Following his release, the Republic of Cyprus authorities initiated procedures for an arrest and deportation warrant due to his illegal presence in the country. The man subsequently applied for political asylum, with the application currently under examination.
According to sources, no further action will be taken until the asylum application reaches conclusion. If authorities reject the asylum request, they intend to proceed with deportation.
Second Kurdish case awaits German notification
In a separate case, another Kurdish man, Kenan Ayaz, awaits transfer to Cyprus from Germany to serve the remainder of his sentence. All arrangements are complete, with authorities awaiting notification from German officials to proceed with the transfer.
