FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – Courts across Turkish occupied northern Cyprus are grappling daily with cases of violence against women, as new data reveals a troubling surge in reported incidents during the first half of 2025.
According to figures from the ‘Department of Gender Equality’s Violence Against Women Intervention Branch’, 375 women in “partnership” relationships reported abuse between January and May. Of these, 169 cases—or 45.06 percent—involved physical violence.
The data, however, only reflects cases within defined partnership relationships and excludes other forms of domestic or gender-based violence.
Officials caution that the true scale of abuse is likely far greater, as many victims remain reluctant to report incidents due to fear or stigma.
Monthly breakdowns show a steady stream of cases: 79 in January, 43 in February, 76 in March, 90 in April, and 87 in May.
The recent death of Ahsen Nur Kilitçioğlu, found on Silver Beach in Famagusta on May 30, has sparked public outrage. While the autopsy cited brain hemorrhage and drowning, the family disputes the findings. The case remains under investigation and is not included in official violence statistics.
Authorities and advocacy groups continue to call for expanded reporting mechanisms and stronger protections for victims.